Composite comes from the Latin word 'componere'. Composite materials occurs when two or more substances are combined (physical and not chemical). This will create a new material with special, targeted and superior properties.
A basic advantage with composite materials is the extreme flexibility in form and strength.
The technical properties is a function of
the qualities and characteristics, combinations of substances (matrix, reinforcement, curing agent, additives), production processes and production conditions.
The possibilities are endless.
Composite has, in many areas, replaced traditional materials like steel, wood and concrete and today airplanes, trains, ships and tanks are mostly produced with
composite materials.
Composite materials can be recycled with or without processing.
By recycling composite materials they achieves largely similar data/properties and even in some cases improved properties in comparison with new materials.
Benefits of composite materials
- High specific rigidity – .jpg)
- High specific strength – 
- Low weight
- Good fatigue properties / attenuation properties
- Good corrosion resistance
- Attractive surface finish
- Competitive materials / production costs
- Inexpensive design optimization
- Directional tailored properties
Technical Information - composite
Material properties comparison between a type of fiberglass-reinforced polyester (GAP) and PVC, aluminum, steel and wood.
Strength, flexibility and durability in composite materials are made clear in this Crash-Test done by Texas A&M university, where a concrete wall reinforced with composite profiles stops a 36 Tons Truck!