Materials Science, Composites covers resources that focus on mixtures or mechanical combinations of two or more materials that are solid in the finished state, are mutually insoluble, and differ in chemical nature. The major types of composites are 1) laminates of paper, fabric, or wood and a thermosetting material; 2) reinforced plastics; 3) cermets (ceramic and metal powders); 4) fabrics of natural and synthetic fibers; and 5) filled composites, in which a bonding material is loaded with filler in the form of flakes or small particles.
Materials Science, Textiles covers resources that focus on the manufacture of clothing and furniture from materials made of natural fibers (e.g., leather, cotton, wool, wood) and/or synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester, vinyl, nylon). Resources covering dyes and colors and fiber chemistry are also included.
Materials Science, Biomaterials includes resources that analyze the physical characteristics of living tissue to aid in the development of synthetic replacements for repairs or augmentation of functions. Resources in this category cover the development, testing, performance, and biocompatibility of engineered biomaterials in vitro and in vivo for purposes such as medical implants, devices, and sensors.