Anisotropy

The variation of a material's properties with direction. Fibre-reinforced composites are strongly anisotropic, with much higher stiffness and strength along the fibre direction than across it, so ply orientations must be matched to the expected load paths.

Also known as: anisotropic behaviour, directionality

Related terms

Isotropy

The condition in which a material has the same properties in every direction, as with most metals, unreinforced plastics and glass. Isotropic behaviour simplifies design because a single set of property values applies regardless of load direction.

Materials science (general)AerospaceAutomotiveConstructionMarineGreen energyIndustrial

Orthotropic material

A material with different properties along three mutually perpendicular axes, such as a unidirectional composite ply or timber. Orthotropic behaviour is a well-defined special case of anisotropy and underpins classical laminate analysis.

Materials science (general)Composites & laminatesAerospaceAutomotiveConstructionMarineGreen energyIndustrial

Laminate

A composite element built up from multiple bonded layers (plies) of reinforcement and matrix, consolidated and cured so that they act as a single structural material. Its stiffness and strength depend on the fibre orientations and stacking sequence of the plies.

Composites & laminatesAerospaceAutomotiveConstructionMarineGreen energyIndustrial

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