Polymers, Polymer Composites and Adhesives

A polymer composite is a multi-phase material that combines reinforcing fillers and a polymer matrix to produce mechanical qualities that neither element could produce on its own. They functions as a matrix resin that penetrates the bundles of reinforcement and bonds to it.. They are used mainly in automotive and aerospace applications, and this chapter focuses on automotive polymer composites, the most common of which is polyester polymer resin. These polymers are typically combined with glass fibers and have particular characteristics, including cycle times less than 2 min, service use temperatures of 60–70°C, and use of lower cost glass fibers and resin materials, among others. 

Polymer composites are being used more often in a variety of engineering disciplines. A variety of medical instruments, including MRI scanners, C scanners, X-ray couches, mammography plates, tables, surgical target tools, wheelchairs, and prostheses, have components made of polymer matrix composites.