What is composite material? Shortly describe metal matrix composite andpolymer matrix composite with one example of each type.

A composite material is a material that is created by combining two or more different types of materials, each with its own separate and distinct physical and chemical properties. The different materials work together to give the composite unique characteristics.

1. Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs): These are composite materials with at least two constituent parts, one being a metal. The other material may be a different metal or another material, such as a ceramic or organic compound. The aim of MMCs is to combine the desirable attributes of metals and ceramics. For example, the combination of aluminum (a metal) and silicon carbide (a ceramic) results in a composite that has the lightness of aluminum and the hardness of ceramic.

2. Polymer Matrix Composites (PMCs): These are composites that consist of a polymer (resin) matrix combined with a fibrous reinforcing dispersed phase. The resin provides environmental and chemical resistance and the fiber reinforcement provides strength and stiffness. An example of a PMC is fiberglass, where the matrix is a plastic and the reinforcement is glass that is either randomly arranged or woven into a fabric.