ASSESSING THE THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF COMPOSITES

Composites have a wide range of applications and can be specially designed to meet specific needs. Thermal conductivity testing can be performed using Hot Disks Thermal conductivity instruments to meet insulation needs. Composites are generally lighter than their original counterparts, but have enhanced strength in comparison. A natural composite such as wood, is composed of lignin and cellulose, two relatively weak entities on their own, but when combined, create a strong and durable material. Concrete is the most common artificial composite. To remove a weight load from the concrete and increase its tensile strength, metal bars are added within the matrix. Because of their light weight characteristics, composites, such as carbon nanotubes, are being implemented in areas of aerospace and automobiles. After all, a lighter aircraft is a more efficient aircraft.