Klaaskiudusid

Klaaskiudusid, commonly referred to as fiberglass, is a material made from extremely fine fibers of glass. These fibers are produced by melting glass and then forcing it through very small openings, creating thin strands. These strands can then be woven into a fabric or used as a reinforcing material. Fiberglass is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals.

The primary applications of klaaskiudusid are in insulation and composite materials. As an insulator, it is widely used in buildings to reduce heat transfer and sound. Its non-combustible nature also makes it a valuable fire retardant. In composite materials, fiberglass is combined with resins, such as polyester or epoxy, to create strong yet lightweight structures. This combination is found in a vast array of products, including boat hulls, automotive parts, aircraft components, sporting goods like surfboards and skis, and wind turbine blades.

The production of klaaskiudusid involves melting silica sand and other additives at high temperatures. The molten glass is then extruded through spinnerets to form fine filaments. These filaments can be processed into various forms, including chopped strands, mats, or woven fabrics, depending on the intended application. While generally safe to handle, precautions are often advised to avoid skin, eye, and respiratory irritation from the fine glass fibers.