Fibre Reinforced Plastic, also known as Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) is the generic term for a uniquely versatile family of is composite materials made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres, used in everything from chemical plants to luxury powerboats.
In 1935, Owens Corning introduced the first glass fibre and launched the fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) industry. In 1936, unsaturated polyester resins were patented. Because of their curing properties, unsaturated polyester resins are the dominant choice for resins in manufacturing today. The first use of glass fibre reinforced polyester composites was in the aircraft industry during the 1940s.
Fibre-reinforced plastic is a composite material made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres. The fibres are usually glass (in fibreglass), carbon (in carbon fibre reinforced polymer), aramid, or basalt. Rarely, other fibres such as paper, wood, or asbestos have been used. The polymer is usually an epoxy, vinyl ester, or polyester thermosetting plastic, though phenol formaldehyde resins are still in use.
FRPs are commonly used in aerospace, automotive, marine, and construction industries. They are commonly found in ballistic armor and cylinders for Self-contained breathing apparatuses. Chemical plants and pipes also utilize fibre reinforced polymers.
FRP is widely used to create murals, sculptures, moulds, and other artistic articles.
FRP weighs up to 75% less than steel but is equally strong.
Regular surface cleaning is the basic maintenance of outdoor sculptures. More advanced cleaning, such as rinsing with low-pressure water combined with cloth and brushes, should be done only if needed.
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