Final answer:
Reinforcing fibers are typically made from materials like glass fibers, carbon fibers, and polymers such as aramid, and are used to enhance the properties of composites in applications requiring strength and flexibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Manufactured reinforcing fibers are typically made from materials such as glass fibers, carbon fibers, and high-strength polymers like aramid. These fibers are incorporated into a matrix to form various composite materials. One of the most common of these is fiberglass, where glass fibers are embedded within a polymer matrix like epoxy or polyester. This combination results in a material that is both strong and flexible.
Polymeric matrices, which are often resinous solutions, include a variety of polymers like polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy. Polymer-matrix composites are widely used due to the advantageous properties they derive from the synergy between the polymer matrix and the reinforcing fibers.
Other types of composites include metal-matrix composites and ceramic-matrix composites, with reinforcing fibers embedded in metal/metal alloy matrices and ceramic matrices, respectively. These materials are designed for specific applications that may require enhanced properties such as higher temperature resistance or added strength.