Polyester fiberglass-reinforced, properties

The resin matrix can be either thermosetting or thermoplastic. Thermosetting resins such as epoxy, polyimide, polyester, and phenolic are used in applications where physical properties are important. Polyester and epoxy composites make up the bulk of the thermoset composite market. Of these two, polyesters dominate by far. Reinforced with glass fiber, these are known as fiberglass-reinforced plastics (FRPs). FRPs are molded by layup and spray-up methods or by compression molding either a preform or sheet molding compound (SMC). 

Table 2.27 Properties of Polyester Composites Reinforced by Continuous and Chopped Fiberglass...

Table 2.39 Properties of Fiberglass-reinforced Polyester Composites with ...

Halogenated resins consist of chlorinated or brominated polymers. The chlorinated polyester resins ciured at room temperature and reinforced with fiberglass possess unique physical, mechanical, and corrosion resistance properties. These are also known as chlorendic polyesters. 

In addition to being available as continuous filaments and staple fibers in mats, fiberglass textiles are also available as biaxial, triaxial, knitted and three dimensional braided patterns. Many different resin matrices are in use but the emphasis in this chapter will be on unsaturated polyester and epoxy resins. While the strength and stiffness are controlled primarily by the reinforcements, the resinous matrix contributes to thermal conductivity and flexibility. The ultimate properties of these composites are based on a harmonious contribution of both the continuous and discontinuous phases. 

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