Fiberglass
Strength & Thermal Stability
History
Fiberglass is produced into several forms and utilized in a vast array of composite and industrial applications. It is often used in thermoset and thermoplastic composite applications where the fiber is used as reinforcement. The mass production of glass fibers began in the 1930’s.
Composition
Large furnaces are used to melt silica sand, limestone, and various other minerals to liquid form. The liquid is then extruded through bushings and are coated (sized) to help bundle the filaments and prepare the fibers for composite resin interface. E-Glass typically is utilized for its high modulus properties as S-Glass has a higher breaking tenacity.
IMPACT
- Good tensile strength & modulus
- Excellent thermal properties
- Good chemical resistance
- Good flame resistance
- Good electrical insulation
Fiberglass Data
Resources
| Property | E-Glass | S-Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Breaking Tenacity (g/d) | 6.0-7.3 | 6.7-9.4 |
| Specific Gravity (ratio) | 2.58 | 2.48 |
| Elongation at Break (%) | 3.5 | 5.5 |
| Tensile Modulus (g/d) | 200-275 | 140-170 |
| Equilibrium Moisture Regain at 55% RH (%) | <0.03 | <0.03 |
| Creep at 40-48% ult tensile strength (%) | 10.0-20.0 | 5.0-15.0 |
| Shrinkage dry air 177 ̊ 30 mins (%) | 0 | 0 |
| Melt Point ( ̊C) | 846 | 846 |
| Fiber Selection Guide | Product Selection Guide | Compare fiber properties and technical data | |
| Fiberglass | Product/Service Overview | Explore product information and technical properties |
