glasfibre

Glass fibre, also known as fiberglass, is a composite material made from extremely fine fibres of glass. These fibres are typically created by melting raw silica sand along with other chemical additives at high temperatures, then extruding the molten glass through fine nozzles to produce continuous filaments. These filaments are then cooled and gathered into bundles or rovings for various applications.

Glass fibre is valued for its high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, electrical insulating properties, and versatility. It is widely used in the production of reinforced plastics for automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. In these applications, glass fibres are embedded into polymer matrices such as polyester, epoxy, or vinyl ester to create strong, lightweight composite materials.

The manufacturing process also includes weaving or matting the fibres into fabrics, which can be shaped and bonded through moulding techniques to produce panels, pipes, and other structural parts. Its insulating properties make it a common choice for thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings and industrial equipment.

Glass fibre is considered environmentally benign compared to some other materials, as it is inert and non-toxic. However, manufacturing and processing require proper handling to avoid inhalation of fine fibres, which can cause respiratory issues.

The development of glass fibre dates back to the 1930s, with significant advancements during World War II for military and industrial applications. Today, it continues to be a critical material in modern composite technologies, balancing durability, weight savings, and environmental resistance.

Overall, glass fibre's combination of properties makes it an essential material across multiple sectors, promoting innovation in lightweight and durable constructions.