This chapter reports the DC conductivity behavior of activated carbon powder filled epoxy gradient composites. Gradient composites are the composite materials in which the there is gradually variation in some direction to achieve gradient in properties. Graded materials are generally defined as the materials, which exhibit variable functional performance with location and show continuous variations in morphology and composition. Functionally graded metal matrix composites have been of great practical importance. Graded metal matrix composite have gradual compositional variations from ceramic at one surface to metal at the other, leading to special advantages of smooth transition in thermal stresses across the thickness and minimized stress concentration at the interface of two dissimilar materials. Therefore graded metal matrix composites are finding applications in aggressive environments with steep temperature gradients such as turbine components and rocket nozzles. Since the properties of material in FGMs are variable across the entire material, and depends on the spatial position of the material. Functionally graded materials are designed with varying properties such as changing their chemical properties, changing mechanical, magnetic, thermal, and electrical properties. Now a days there are FGMs designed as stepwise-graded materials, while others are fabricated to have continuous-graded materials depending on their areas of application.
Part of the book: Mechanics of Functionally Graded Materials and Structures
Nature origin fibres have drawn in extraordinary consideration from commercial and specialists for the use of polymer composites as a result of their ‘greener’ nature and commitment to maintainable practice. Different enterprises have moved towards reasonable innovation to work on the harmony between the climate and social and financial concerns. Innovative work has demonstrated that normal fibres have been effectively applied as fortifications in the composites business, for example, for transportation, inside segments, building, airplane.
Part of the book: Fiber-Reinforced Plastics