metalreinforced

Metalreinforced is an umbrella term used to describe materials in which metal elements are integrated as reinforcement to improve mechanical performance or functional properties. It encompasses composites and engineered laminates where metal is distributed as fibers, meshes, sheets, or inserts within a non-metal matrix or interleaved in layers.

Forms and configurations include metal meshes or grids embedded in concrete or polymers, metal fibers or whiskers dispersed in a matrix, metal foils or laminates forming stacked structures, and metal inserts or fasteners integrated during processing. The term can apply to traditional steel reinforcement in concrete as well as newer hybrids in polymer matrices, ceramic matrices, or carbon-based systems.

Manufacturing approaches vary: casting or pouring with embedded metallic reinforcement during curing, co-molding or laminating metal layers with non-metal components, and additive manufacturing that places metallic features within a matrix. Corrosion protection and compatibility between materials are important design considerations, as galvanic corrosion can occur when metals with different electrochemical potentials are in contact.

Applications span construction, aerospace, automotive, and industrial engineering. In construction, steel-reinforced concrete is a common example where steel rebar provides tensile strength. In composites, metal fiber reinforcement can enhance toughness and thermal conductivity. Metal-reinforced polymers and laminates aim to combine the ductility and conductivity of metal with the lightness or corrosion resistance of polymers or ceramics.

See also: reinforced concrete, metal matrix composites, fiber-reinforced polymer, metallurgical laminates.