2013 · GS Paper 3 · Q17(a) · 5 marks
What is an FRP composite material ? How are they manufactured ? Discuss their applications in aviation and automobile industries.
In short
An FRP composite embeds strong glass, carbon or aramid fibres in a polymer matrix and is made by lay-up, autoclave curing, filament winding, pultrusion or moulding. Composites form about half the structural weight of the Boeing 787 and about 45% of the Tejas airframe.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 271 words
Open moulding
In hand lay-up and spray-up, fibre mats in an open mould are wetted with resin, a cheap route for panels.
Prepreg and autoclave
Resin-impregnated fibre sheets are cured under heat and pressure, giving aerospace-grade parts.
Winding and pultrusion
Resin-soaked fibres are wound on a mandrel for tanks or pulled through a heated die for beams.
Closed moulding
Resin transfer and compression moulding suit high-volume car parts.
Airframes
Composites form about half the structural weight of the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, and about 45% of the Tejas airframe, cutting fuel burn.
Rotors and radomes
HAL's Dhruv helicopter flies on composite rotor blades, and radomes and fairings use glass and aramid FRP for low weight and radar transparency.
Lightweight cars
Carbon-fibre cells in the BMW i3 and Formula 1 monocoques combine low weight with crash safety, extending electric-vehicle range.
Mass-market parts
Glass-FRP leaf springs, bumpers and CNG cylinders replace steel and resist corrosion.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2013 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.