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 | Composite Materials | |
| &rArr | Fee covers materials for kits in Req. 5. |
| &rArr | You must be at least 14 years old to take this badge due to the handling of potentially harmful materials. |
| &rArr | This badge can be completed at camp with no prep work. We think. |
Requirements
- Do the following:
- Explain the precautions that must be taken when handling,
storing, and disposing of resins, reinforcements, and other
materials used in composites. Include in your discussion the
importance of health, safety, and environmental responsibility and
awareness.
- Describe what a material safety data sheet (MSDS) is and tell
why it is used.
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Do the following:
- Explain what are composite materials. Include a brief history of
composites and how they have developed.
- Compare the similarities and differences between composites and
wood, aluminum, copper, and steel. Explain the physical, electrical,
mechanical, corrosive, flammability, cost, and other such
properties. For each of these raw materials, give one example for
how it can be shaped and used for a specific application.
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Describe how composite materials are made. Then do the following:
- Discuss three different composite reinforcement materials, their
positive and negative characteristics, and their uses. Obtain the MSDS for each one and discuss the toxicity, disposal, and
safe-handling sections for these materials.
- Discuss three different resins used in composites, their
positive and negative characteristics, and their uses. Obtain the MSDS for each one and discuss the toxicity, disposal, and
safe-handling sections for these materials. Include thermoset resins
and thermoplastic resins in your discussion.
- For each of the three resins you chose for requirement 3b, think
of a new application that might be worth developing.
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With your parent's permission and your counselor's approval do
ONE of the following:
- Visit a company that manufactures or repairs products made with
composites. Discuss what you learn with your counselor.
- Find three composites-related Web sites. Share and discuss what
you learn with your counselor.
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Do the following:
- Use composite materials to complete two projects, at least one
of which must come from the Composite Materials merit badge
pamphlet. The second project may come from the pamphlet OR may be
one you select on your own that has been approved by your counselor
in advance.
- With your counselor's assistance, find an appropriate site where
the projects can be safely completed under your counselor's
supervision and/or the supervision of an adult approved by your
counselor who is knowledgeable about composites.
- With your counselor, determine how the finished projects will be
evaluated. Using those guidelines, evaluate the completed projects
with your counselor.
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Find out about three career opportunities in composite materials.
Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience
required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and
explain why this profession might interest you.
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