Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a composite material made up of extremely fine fibers of glass. It is a versatile material that is used in various applications due to its strength, durability, and lightweight nature.

Composition

Fiberglass is made from molten glass that is drawn into fine fibers. These fibers are then woven together to create a fabric-like material. The fibers are usually mixed with a plastic resin to create a strong and durable composite material.

Properties

Fiberglass has several important properties:

• Strength: Fiberglass is known for its high tensile strength, which makes it a popular choice for applications where strength is important.
• Lightweight: Despite its strength, fiberglass is relatively lightweight, making it ideal for use in various products and structures.
• Corrosion-resistant: Fiberglass is resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications.
• Insulating properties: Fiberglass is a good insulator, both electrically and thermally, which makes it useful in applications where insulation is required.

Uses

Fiberglass is used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Boats and marine equipment
• Automobile body panels
• Aircraft components
• Water and wastewater tanks
• Building construction, including insulation and structural components
• Sports equipment, such as hockey sticks and fishing rods

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about fiberglass:

1. What is fiberglass made of?
2. What are the important properties of fiberglass?
3. What are some common uses of fiberglass?
4. How is fiberglass different from other materials, such as steel or aluminum?

Remember to understand the composition, properties, and uses of fiberglass to have a clear understanding of this versatile material.