What is a composite material made from?

A composite material is specifically defined as a material made up of two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. The combination results in a material that has superior properties compared to the individual components. In the case of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibers, the polymer acts as the matrix material, providing structural integrity and protection, while the fibers, which can be made from materials such as glass, carbon, or aramid, provide enhanced strength and stiffness. This combination allows composite materials to achieve desirable characteristics such as lightweight, high strength-to-weight ratios, and resistance to environmental factors.

The other options mentioned do not fit the definition of composite materials as accurately. A single polymer does not have the reinforcement that characterizes composite materials. A mixture of metals generally refers to alloys, which are distinct from composite materials, as they involve the metallic properties and behaviors. A blend of different plastics may involve two or more polymer types but does not necessarily include the reinforcing fibers that define composites.