Composite materials can be divided into two main categories: structural composite materials and functional composite materials.

Structural composite material is a material used as a load-bearing structure. It is basically composed of a matrix element, which is able to bear load, an enhanced member and an energy enhancing reinforcement, and become a whole material at the same time. The reinforcement includes all kinds of glass, ceramics, carbon, polymers, metals and natural fibers, fabrics, whiskers, sheets and particles. The base includes polymers, resins, metals, ceramics, glass, carbon and cement. Various structural composites can be made up of different reinforcements and different matrixes, and are named after the matrix used, such as polymer (resin) based composites. The feature of structural composite material is to design material selection based on the force requirements of materials in use, and more importantly, to design composite structures, that is, reinforcement layout design, which can reasonably meet the needs and save materials.

Functional composites are generally made up of functional components and matrix elements. The matrix not only acts as a whole, but also produces synergy or strengthening function. Functional composite material is a composite material that provides other physical properties except mechanical properties. Such as: conductive, superconducting, semiconducting, magnetic, piezoelectric, damping, absorbing, wave transmission, friction, shielding, flame retardant, heat protection, sound absorption, heat insulation and so on, highlighting a function. It is called functional composite. The functional composite is mainly composed of the functional body, the reinforcement and the matrix. A functional body can be made up of one or more functional materials. Multiple functional composite materials can have a variety of functions. At the same time, it is possible to produce new functions due to the compound effect. The multi-functional composite material is the development direction of the functional composite.

Composite materials can also be divided into two types: common and advanced.

The commonly used composite materials, such as fiberglass, are made up of glass fiber reinforced concrete with low properties and ordinary polymers (resins). Because of its low price, it has been widely used in ships, vehicles, chemical pipes and tanks, building structures, sports goods and so on.

Advanced composite materials refer to high performance composites such as carbon fiber and aramid fiber, which are made of high performance and heat-resistant polymer. Later, metal matrix, Tao Ciji and carbon (graphite) base and functional composite materials are included. Their performance is excellent, but the price is relatively high. They are mainly used for defense industry, aerospace, precision machinery, deep submersible, robot structure and high-grade sports goods.