Fiberglass
Fiberglass, also known as glass fiber, is a type of fiber-reinforced plastic where the reinforcement material is specifically glass fiber. The glass fibers themselves are typically made from very fine strands of glass, extruded from molten glass through tiny orifices. These individual strands are then woven into fabrics, mats, or combined with resin to form a composite material. The strength and stiffness of fiberglass derive from the combination of strong, stiff glass fibers embedded in a relatively weaker, more flexible polymer matrix, usually a thermosetting plastic like polyester, vinyl ester, or epoxy resin.
The primary advantage of fiberglass is its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it a lightweight yet robust material. It is also highly resistant to corrosion, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, and possesses good electrical insulation properties. Unlike many metals, fiberglass does not rust or rot, contributing to its long lifespan and low maintenance requirements. Its ability to be molded…