Which material is commonly used for rocket airframes?

The choice of materials for rocket airframes largely depends on factors such as strength, weight, cost, and ease of construction. Fiberglass or cardboard is a well-known combination often used in hobbyist and mid-power rocketry due to its lightweight nature and reasonable strength. Fiberglass offers high strength-to-weight ratios and can withstand significant aerodynamic and thermal stresses during launch and flight, making it a favored choice for many enthusiasts. It is also fairly accessible to build with, as fiberglass kits are available.

Cardboard, while being less robust than fiberglass, is frequently utilized for lower-powered rockets because it is inexpensive and easy to work with. This combination is particularly suited for beginners or for educational models where cost efficiency and ease of construction are significant considerations.

In contrast, other materials like carbon fiber or steel, aluminum or titanium, and wood or plastic have their own uses but are less common for typical rocket airframe construction in the context of hobby and mid-power rocketry. Carbon fiber and titanium, while incredibly strong, tend to be more expensive and are often reserved for high-performance rockets. Aluminum can be used but may not offer the same performance benefits as fiberglass in the weight-to-strength ratio for smaller rockets. Wood and plastic may serve in specific applications but do not