Glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), more commonly referred to as fiberglass, is a material used for manufacturing a wide range of products, from aircrafts and automobiles to shower enclosures and hot tubs. It is less expensive and more flexible than carbon fiber, stronger than some metals at the same weight, and can easily be molded into different shapes. The term “fiberglass” may also refer to the fiber strands embedded into the plastic.

Common Types of Fiberglass

Like metal or wood, there are also different types of fiberglass materials available. They differ in terms of specific gravity, which is the ratio of its density compared with the density of a reference substance, tensile strength, and compressive strength, which is the material’s resistance to breaking while being compressed. Listed below are the most common types of fiberglass: 

• Unreinforced Polyester Resin 

• Polyester And Chopped Strand Mat Laminate 

• Polyester And Woven Rovings Laminate 

• Polyester And Satin Weave Cloth Laminate 

• Polyester And Continuous Rovings Laminate 

The flexibility, durability, and conductivity of each of these types of fiberglass depend largely on the materials they are reinforced with.

Composition

Fiberglass is made from glass fibers and resins, such as epoxy and polyester, which act as a binder and give the material its distinct properties. Often containing silica or silicate and oxides of calcium and magnesium, different kinds of glass fibers have various industrial uses with similar purposes, such as improving mechanical strength, resisting damage, and maintaining a fixed shape.

If you need high-quality paint and fiberglass supplies, turn to Fairbanks Paint & Glass in Fairbanks, AK. They carry an array of top-notch glass brands and can help you choose the right type of material to use for your project. They also offer glass replacement services for storefronts. Call (907) 456-7758 or visit them online to learn more about their services.