A high-performance aerospace component is manufactured from carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). This material consists of thin carbon filaments embedded inside a hardened epoxy resin.
Which of the following correctly classifies CFRP and describes the function of the carbon filaments?
Class: Composite; Function of filaments: Matrix that binds the structure and provides compressive strength
Class: Composite; Function of filaments: Reinforcement that provides tensile strength
Class: Alloy; Function of filaments: Reinforcement that increases electrical conductivity
Class: Polymer; Function of filaments: Matrix that reduces the overall weight of the material