Composite materials and applications thereof

A composite material comprising:

• an inorganic ceramic matrix comprising a first outer surface and a second outer surface opposite the first outer surface and generally parallel to the first outer surface;
• at least three evenly spaced open weave fiber glass fabrics disposed in the inorganic ceramic matrix between the first outer surface and the second outer surface, wherein the at least three evenly spaced open weave fiber glass fabrics comprise
• a first woven glass fiber fabric disposed proximate the first outer surface of the inorganic ceramic matrix, the first woven glass fabric having a void opening of at least 0.25 inches,
• a second woven glass fiber fabric disposed proximate the second outer surface of the inorganic ceramic matrix, the second woven glass fabric having a void opening of at least 0.25 inches, and
• a third glass fiber fabric disposed between the first woven glass fiber fabric and second woven glass fiber fabric, the third glass fiber fabric having a porosity lower than at least one of the first woven glass fiber fabric and second woven glass fiber fabric;
• wherein the inorganic ceramic matrix comprises a phosphate ceramic, and wherein the composite material is at least 1.5 inches thick.