Editing Aggregate (composite) (section)

===Toughened composites===
[[Toughness]] is a compromise between the (often contradictory) requirements of [[strength of materials|strength]] and [[Plasticity (physics)|plasticity]]. In many cases, the aggregate will have one of these properties, and will benefit if the matrix can add what it lacks. Perhaps the most accessible examples of this are composites with an [[organic compound|organic]] matrix and [[ceramic]] aggregate, such as [[asphalt concrete]] ("tarmac") and [[filled plastic]] (i.e., [[Nylon]] mixed with powdered [[glass]]), although most [[metal matrix composites]] also benefit from this effect. In this case, the correct balance of hard and soft components is necessary or the material will become either too weak or too brittle.