Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) is a type of composite material that uses fiber materials to alter the strength and elasticity of plastic. They offer high tensile strength and have use in a range of applications. In this article, we discuss some of the key properties of fiberglass reinforced polymer.

Fiber Reinforced Polymer is Corrosion Resistant

FRP demonstrates high levels of corrosion and chemical resistance. It does not rust like metal or rot like wood. This means that these composite materials are highly durable with long service life and fewer maintenance requirements.

Because FRP has such excellent corrosion resistance properties, it is used in a range of applications such as marine infrastructure, structures in the power industry, the aerospace industry, and more.

Fiber reinforced polymer from Strongwell benefits from being manufactured in ISO 9001:2015 facilities with incoming materials having to adhere to strict regulations.

How is Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer Made?

FRP can be made using a range of techniques, the most common being pultrusion. These techniques can create continuous lengths of FRP structural shapes with continuous cross sections.

A liquid resin mixture and flexible textile reinforcing fibers are combined and pulled through a heated steel forming die via a continuous pulling device. The reinforcement materials (such as fiberglass mat and roving) are immersed in a liquid resin mixture and pulled through the die. The heat of the die causes hardening and a cured profile forming.

Key Characteristics 

The key properties of fiberglass reinforced polymer are based on a range of factors including the mechanical properties and volume makeup of the matrix with fibers and the position of the fibers in the matrix.

Materials made from fiberglass reinforced polymer have a low weight but are extremely strong. They have excellent fatigue levels, impact, and compression properties. They also have excellent electrical properties and high environmental resistance and can enhance the thermal insulation of their applications.

Reinforced plastic is highly cost-effective. Sometimes they have a higher initial cost, but their low maintenance and lightweight properties mean they require substantially less equipment for installation and fabrication. They can also be tailored to suit a broad range of applications and performance specifications.

Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer as an Alternative to Wood

FRP is not impacted by moisture or water immersion whereas wood can be impacted by rot and will eventually decompose over time. Pressure-treated wood can be used instead, however, FRP is seen as a safer alternative as it does not chemically leach into soil or water upon direct contact.

Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer as a Steel Alternative

Steel has been used for many years in building materials as it is strong and durable. However, its corrosion resistant coating can be damaged easily leading to costly corrosion issues. FRP is much lighter than steel, making it easier to install in building applications and it is also not subject to the same corrosion.

To find out more about fiberglass reinforced polymer, get in touch with the team at Strongwell today or visit our website for more.