Home > Composites > Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer Panels
Fiberglass reinforced polymer panels (FRP) are a composite material made by embedding glass fibers in a plastic resin matrix.
The glass fibers provide reinforcement, while the plastic matrix binds the fibers together, giving the material exceptional strength, durability, and flexibility.
FRP panels offer the advantage of greater resistance to corrosion, compression, and environmental factors compared to traditional materials such as steel and aluminum.
Features
- Yacht grade materials
- Anisotropic mechanical properties
- Prevent bulging
- Reduce attrition
- Micro-foam elasticity, anti-shrinkage glue
- More flexibility
- Bearing force as a whole
- Prevent cracking
Brief Development
The development of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) panels began in the mid-20th century, driven by various industries’ need for lightweight, high-strength materials. Initially used in the aerospace sector, FRP technology quickly expanded into other fields due to its versatility and superior performance. As resin and fiber technologies have advanced, the performance and range of applications for FRP sheets have continued to improve.
Structure of FRP Panels
Gelcoat layer: Gelcoat is a protective surface coating that provides a smooth, shiny finish to surfaces, making them more aesthetically pleasing.
Fiberglass Reinforcement Layer: High-quality thermosetting resin + fiberglass felt or fiberglass cloth.
Non-woven Fabric Layer: The non-woven fabric serves as a connecting layer, and FRP and other materials can be tightly bonded by spraying glue.
Advantages
- Extremely lightweight
- Aesthetics
- UV resistant
- Durable
- Corrosion resistance
- Easy to clean
- Antimicrobial
- Low maintenance cost
- Easy to process
- Electrical insulation
- Thermal insulation
Specifications of FRP Panels
Fiber Type | Fiberglass mat; fiberglass cloth. |
Resin Type | Unsaturated polyester; epoxy resin. |
Fiberglass Content | 30-70%. |
Surface Treatment | Glossy gelcoat. |
Surface Color | RAL series. |
Width | ≤3200mm. |
Thickness | 0.7-5.0mm. |
Length | 100-250m/roll. |
Mechanical Properties
Density | 1.5–2.0 g/cm³. |
Tensile Strength | 500–1500 MPa. |
Tensile Modulus | 20–60 GPa. |
Flexural Strength | 600–1200 MPa. |
Compressive Strength | 100–400 MPa. |
Shear Strength | 100–300 MPa. |
Flexural Modulus | 20–50 GPa. |
Impact Strength | 50–300 kJ/m². |
Water Absorption | < 0.5%. |
Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +150°C. |
Application of FRP Panels
Fiberglass panels can be laminated with XPS/PU/PVC/PET/Plywood/Honeycomb to make sandwich panels, which are used in many fields.
Construction Industry
- Roofs, exterior walls and structural components.
Transportation Industry
- FRP panels are used to make lightweight vehicle parts such as box truck body panels, ambulance box, hoods and interior trim.
Manufacturing Facilities
- Wall panels for cooling towers and clean rooms
Marine and Offshore Applications
- Its corrosion resistance and impermeability can be used in yachts