A Composite comprises at least two components, one being fibrous or particulate embedded in a matrix.

These are a range of materials which provide improved mechanical properties when compared to their base counterparts e.g. strength, stiffness, thermal conductivity, abrasion resistance, creep resistance or dimensional stability.

There are two classes, namely a resin-matrix Composite and a Metal Matrix Composite; in both cases, the improved performance of the materials is achieved by the addition of carbon, metallic or intermetallic compounds.

Woven fabrics are made by the regular interlacing of two arrays of yarns at right angles to each other, these being referred to as the warp and weft (see also Non-woven fabric).

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