History

• Glass blowing has been a highly respected trade throughout the world for thousands of years. As part of the industry, many tradesmen worked on drawing the glass out into fine fibers that were used as decorative accents on the glass objects. During the 1930's, the Owens-Corning Corporation developed the technology to turn fine glass fibers into a fabric type material that was used for insulation and industrial cloth. They had such success with the insulation that they began to pursue other uses for these glass fibers. Soon they were combining them with polymers and plastic compounds to produce building and marine materials. Owens-Corning is still one of the world's top fiberglass producers today.
  
  

Features

• One of the most highly prized feature of fiberglass is its high ratio of tactile strength to weight. For such a strong object with a relatively large surface area, it weighs very little, especially when compared to objects of similar strength. Fiberglass is also known for its excellent insulating properties and its low thermal conductivity.
  
  

Function

• Today fiberglass is widely used in the construction industry. It provides a light-weight roofing material on buildings and overhangs, and is commonly used to cover walls and countertops in kitchens and chemical areas. It is a popular choice for home insulation, and is often placed within the home's framing. Molded fiberglass is very popular in the marine industry as well, with the majority of pleasure craft being built from this material. Because of its low weight compared to its strength, it is gaining popularity in the aerospace and engineering fields as well.
  
  

Types

• The product commonly referred to as fiberglass actually comes in three different main forms. The first is called FRP, or fiber-reinforced polymer. It consists of polymer compounds reinforced with glass fibers. The second is GRP, or glass reinforced plastic, which is made up of plastic materials reinforced by glass. The third is known as CFRP, or carbon-fiber reinforced polymer. It is the most expensive type of fiberglass available, and is also the most durable and most lightweight.
  
  

Potential

• As new technologies are developed that enable glass to be spun finer and finer, more industries will begin to realize the potential of fiberglass as a building material. Today, the housing industry relies on this material as a quick and affordable way to build roofs, canopies, and windows. Because it is so lightweight, it is quick to install and dramatically reduces labor costs. Because this material is so light and strong, many engineering and aerospace firms are researching ways to incorporate fiberglass into their work as well. This material could lead to stronger bridges, buildings, and other structures, and could enable spacecraft to fly higher and further then ever before.