fiberglassbodied

Fiberglassbodied is an adjective used to describe a structure whose exterior or primary load-bearing body is made from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) rather than metal. In FRP, glass fibers such as E-glass provide reinforcement within a resin matrix, typically polyester, vinyl ester, or epoxy.

Manufacturing methods vary and can include hand lay-up, spray-up, vacuum infusion, and resin transfer molding, depending on volume, complexity, and performance goals. Common uses for fiberglass-bodied constructions span automobiles (notably sports cars and kit cars), boats and marine craft, light aircraft, and certain consumer products.

Advantages of fiberglass bodies include light weight, good strength-to-weight, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility that enables complex shapes. Tooling costs for low-volume production are relatively low compared with metal bodies. Disadvantages include potentially lower impact resistance than metal depending on lay-up and fiber orientation, susceptibility to moisture ingress and delamination if damaged, and UV degradation if the surface is not properly protected with gel coat or paint. Repairs can require specialized techniques and resin systems, and may involve patching, re-finishing, and sometimes re-sealing of joints.

Historically, fiberglass-bodied designs emerged in the postwar period as a lightweight alternative to metal, with notable early examples such as the 1953 Chevrolet Corvette and various Lotus models. In marine use, FRP hulls became widespread from the 1950s onward due to ease of shaping and resistance to corrosion.

Overall, fiberglassbodied constructions offered weight and corrosion advantages, while presenting specific repair, durability, and UV-protection considerations.