Composites and alloys may appear similar at first glance; however, digging deeper reveals significant differences in properties and applications. Both composites and alloys combine two materials to create a new material, but this is where the similarity ends.
Let’s take a closer look at the differences between alloys such as nickel-chromium and stainless steel and future-proof composites such as fibreglass, carbon fibre, and nickel composites.
Alloys and composites: the basics
Put simply, an alloy is a mixture of two components, one of which must be a metal. An excellent example of an alloy is brass, with the essential components of copper and zinc combined to create an alloy with superior strength and aesthetic appeal. Due to the presence of metal, alloys have an attractive lustrous quality; in addition, most alloys conduct electricity.
Like an alloy, a composite is a mixture of at least two components; however, unlike an alloy, neither has to be a metal. The purpose of composites is generally to create a material with desirable properties or increased strength; for example, nickel composites from surface treatment specialists such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/advanced-treatments/apticote-460-nickel-composites are in high demand for engineering applications.
How is a composite different from an alloy?
Composites combine two materials with different physical properties, known as the matrix and binder, into a heterogeneous mixture. Composites are also robust, lightweight, and durable. Unlike alloys, composites commonly occur in nature – such as wood, a composite of lignin and cellulose fibres – or can be manufactured, such as fibreglass.
One significant difference between the two materials is that the base elements of a composite are distinct from each other; as a result, the composite is stronger than the individual elements. Unlike alloys, composites will never form a homogenous mixture. A good example is concrete, in which you can see the different components as they never blend entirely.
Conclusion
On the surface, composites and alloys may seem similar; after all, they are both blends of two or more materials. Knowing the differences between the two will help you understand their properties, benefits, and uses.