Materials & Processes: Fibers for composites

 The structural properties of composite materials are derived primarily from the fiber reinforcement. Fiber types, their manufacture, their uses and the end-market applications in which they find most use are described.

• WIND/ENERGY
• SUSTAINABILITY
• AUTOMOTIVE
• DEFENSE
• CARBON FIBERS
• BIOMATERIALS
• OUT OF AUTOCLAVE
• MARKET OUTLOOK
• MATERIALS
• GLASS FIBERS
• FABRICS/PREFORMS
• PRESSURE VESSELS
• WEAVING
• INFRASTRUCTURE
• CONSUMER
• AEROSPACE
• NATURAL FIBERS
• MASS TRANSIT
• REINFORCEMENTS
• MARKETS
• MARINE
• CONSTRUCTION
• COMPOSITES BASICS
• FRP REBAR

The structural properties of composite materials are derived primarily from the fiber reinforcement. In a composite, the fiber, held in place by the matrix resin, contributes tensile strength, enhancing performance properties in the final part, such as strength and stiffness, while minimizing weight. Fiber properties are determined by the fiber manufacturing process and the ingredients and coating chemistries used in the process.

Glass fibers

The majority of all fibers used in the composites industry are glass. Glass fibers are the oldest and, by far, the most common reinforcement in most end-market applications (the aerospace industry is a significant exception) to replace heavier metal parts. Glass fiber weighs more than the second most common reinforcement, carbon fiber, and is not as stiff, but is more impact-resistant and has a greater elongation-to-break (that is, it elongates to a greater degree before it breaks). Depending upon the glass type, filament diameter, coating chemistry (called “sizing,” see “Critical fiber sizing," below) and fiber form, a wide range of properties and performance levels can be achieved.

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