Engineering potential of composite materials

This note illustrates how the development rate for the use of composites as engineering materials has recently increased. Reasons for the expected even larger number of applications of composites in industry is explored. The engineering potential of composites is outlined in terms of properties and design aspects and mainly by pointing out how the proper use of a composite requires a clear knowledge of its application as well as the appropriate design technology. Examples of applications in different fields are reported with the aim of showing the high versatility of composites for a variety of engineering applications. The final part is devoted to cost aspects, which are considered in connection with the effects of composite use upon the total structure. The purpose is to show that a large number of interesting applications are already cost effective.