The History of Composites: When Were They Invented and By Whom?

Composite materials are at the heart of today’s most innovative industries—from Aerospace to Formula One. While these high-performance materials might feel like a modern invention, the history of composites stretches back thousands of years.

In this article, we explore when composites were first invented, who developed them, and how they’ve evolved into the materials shaping the future of engineering.

 

What Are Composites?

A composite material is formed by combining two or more different materials to create one with improved properties. This typically involves a matrix (like plastic or resin) and a reinforcement (such as fibres or particles). The goal is to create something stronger, lighter, or more durable than the original components.

Examples include:

  • Carbon fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRPs)
  • Glass fibre-reinforced plastics (GFRPs)
  • Aramid fibres, like Kevlar

For a more technical overview, see this guide from ScienceDirect

 

Early History: Ancient Composites

The concept of combining materials goes back thousands of years:

  • Around 1500 BC, Egyptians used mud bricks reinforced with straw, making them tougher and longer-lasting.
  • In Mongolia around 1200 BC, composite bows were created using layers of horn, sinew, and wood.
  • Early Mesopotamian and Chinese civilisations also used layered materials in construction and tools.

These were naturally occurring composites and marked humanity’s first attempts at engineered materials.

 

 

Modern Composites: 20th Century Breakthroughs

The materials we now recognise as composites were developed during the 20th century:

  • 1935: The Owens Corning company developed fibreglass, combining glass fibres with polyester resin—this is considered the birth of modern composite technology. Owens Corning Company History (DR 62)
  • 1958: Dr Roger Bacon, working at Union Carbide, invented carbon fibre in the US. This was further refined by British companies, including Rolls-Royce.
  • 1965: Kevlar was invented by Stephanie Kwolek at DuPont, a strong, heat-resistant aramid fibre now used in aerospace, defence, and protective gear. Read more via Britannica (DR 93)

During World War II, composite materials were used extensively for aircraft and military equipment, valued for their lightweight structure and corrosion resistance.

 

Composites in Today’s Industries

Composites are used across industries for their exceptional performance, especially where high strength-to-weight ratios are vital.

Key sectors include:

  • Aerospace & Aviation: Composites now make up over 50% of aircraft structures like the Boeing 787.
  • F1 & Automotive: Racing teams use carbon fibre composites for chassis and safety structures due to their durability and low weight.
  • Renewable Energy: Wind turbine blades are built with advanced composites to maximise efficiency and lifespan.
  • Marine: Composites help build lightweight, corrosion-resistant vessels.

 

 

Staffing the Composite Materials Industry

With the global composites market forecast to reach $163 billion by 2029 (Source: Fortune Business Insights – DR 68), demand for skilled labour is only increasing.

VHR recruits across a wide range of roles, including:

  • Composite Laminators
  • NDT Inspectors
  • Aerospace Technicians
  • Marine Engineers

We work with global employers to match candidates with rewarding opportunities in sectors where composite materials are essential.

View our Engineering & Defence pages

 

Who Invented Composites and When?

  • First known composite: Mud and straw bricks – Ancient Egypt, c.1500 BC
  • First modern composite: Fibreglass by Owens Corning – 1935
  • Carbon fibre: Invented by Roger Bacon – 1958
  • Kevlar: Invented by Stephanie Kwolek (DuPont) – 1965

Today, composites are an essential part of global industry, helping engineers push the boundaries of what is possible.

 

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