A BASIC requirement for a matrix material in FRP is:
- Lower elastic modulus than fibers
- STRAIN AT BREAK must be LARGER than the strain at break of the fibers it holds
- Higher density
- Higher tensile strength than the fibers
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Correct answer: B. STRAIN AT BREAK must be LARGER than the strain at break of the fibers it holds
If the matrix were to fail at lower strain than fibers, the composite would fail at matrix failure — fibers never reach their capacity.
Matrix strain-at-break > fiber strain-at-break ensures fibers carry load until their own failure.