This article begins with a discussion on fiber-reinforced composite materials and describes the generic behavior and structure/property relationships of composites. The article summarizes lamina properties and presents equations that help in calculation of lamina properties. Composite laminates are constructed from lamina with uniaxial fiber orientation and frequently from textile fabrics as well. The article describes the characteristics of symmetric in-plane and through-thickness laminates; asymmetric in-plane and symmetric through-thickness laminates; asymmetric laminates; and curved laminates. It provides information on controlled thermal expansion composites, metal-matrix composites, and ceramic-matrix composites as well as their properties. The article addresses the consideration of variance and scaling. It illustrates the types of bonded joints and concludes with a discussion on design for manufacturing.