Fiberglassreinforced

Fiberglass reinforced describes composite materials in which glass fibers provide reinforcement within a polymer matrix. The combination yields a material with high strength and stiffness relative to weight, along with good corrosion resistance. The term can be applied to various composites where fiberglass serves as the reinforcing phase, typically referred to as fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP).

Glass fibers used include E-glass (the most common) and S-glass for higher strength. Reinforcement may appear as continuous fibers, fabric fabrics (woven roving, stitched fabrics), or chopped strands. Matrices are usually thermosetting resins such as polyester, vinyl ester, or epoxy; thermoplastics such as polyamide or other thermoplastics are also used in some FRP systems. Forms include pultruded profiles, filament-wound tubes, and sheet products.

Manufacturing methods include hand lay-up, spray-up, vacuum infusion, resin transfer molding, compression molding, filament winding, and pultrusion. The chosen method influences fiber volume fraction, orientation, and overall property performance.

Key properties of fiberglass-reinforced composites include a high strength-to-weight ratio, good electrical insulation, and resistance to many chemicals and environmental conditions. FRP is non-conductive and can be shaped into complex geometries. Limitations include moisture absorption in some resins, UV sensitivity without protective coatings, lower heat resistance relative to metals, and potential brittleness; fire performance varies with resin system and additives.

Common applications cover construction components such as panels and beams; piping and tanks in chemical and wastewater treatment; automotive, aerospace, and marine parts; wind turbine blades; and sporting goods and corrosion-resistant equipment. Environmental and lifecycle considerations include long service life but recycling challenges and the need for proper disposal and safety practices aligned with resin systems and standards.