What materials can buttress struts be made of?

Buttress struts are critical components used in various rescue scenarios, particularly in stabilizing or providing support to a vehicle during extrication procedures. The strength and durability of these struts are paramount, as they must withstand the forces exerted during rescue operations.

Steel and aluminum are ideal materials for buttress struts due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratios and structural integrity. Steel offers high tensile strength and durability, making it capable of supporting heavy loads, while aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, which is beneficial in dynamic rescue situations. This combination of materials allows for the construction of struts that can provide effective stabilization without adding excessive weight.

On the other hand, while options that include plastic, rubber, wood, or composite materials may have applications in different contexts, they do not possess the same level of strength and performance necessary for the rigors of rescue operations. Plastic and rubber may not withstand heavy loads, and while wood can provide reasonable support, it is prone to structural deterioration in adverse conditions. Composite materials can vary widely in their properties, but not all composites can match the strength and reliability of steel or aluminum in this specific application.

Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of using steel and aluminum in constructing buttress struts for effective