What does the core of a sandwich construction provide to a composite structure?

The core of a sandwich construction plays a critical role in enhancing the structural integrity of a composite structure. In this context, the core, which is typically made from lightweight materials such as foam or balsa wood, serves as a separator between the outer skins of the composite. This design significantly increases the moment of inertia, allowing the sandwich structure to withstand bending and shear forces more effectively than a solid laminate of the same weight.

By distributing loads more evenly across its surface, the core contributes to the overall strength and stiffness of the composite. This design is particularly advantageous in applications where weight savings are crucial, such as in marine and aerospace industries, without sacrificing the strength necessary for structural applications. Ultimately, the strategic use of a core in sandwich construction enables engineers and designers to create materials that are both lightweight and robust, making it a preferred choice for many composite applications.