Composite Materials

This topic investigates various composite material including laminates, asphalt, geotextiles and concrete. Applications of each material and advantages of composite material are discussed. Concrete structures are a key concept of this topic.

Key Concepts

• Laminates, structures and applications
• Asphalt, ingredients and applications
• Geotextiles, structures and applications
• Concrete, structures and applications
• Concrete testing methods.

Discussion Questions

Laminates

1. Describe and define a timber laminate.
2. Explain the advantages of timber laminates for structural applications.

Asphalt

1. Describe and define asphalt.
2. Explain the advantages of asphalt as a surface layer.

Geotextiles

1. Describe and define geotextile.
2. Explain the advantages of geotextile in a structure.

Concrete

1. Define concrete.
2. Explain the advantages of concrete as a structural component.
3. Describe methods of reinforcing concrete.
4. Define the term post-tensioned concrete.
5. Define the term pre-tensioned concrete.

Concrete Testing

1. Describe methods of testing concrete.