Aramid fibre

A reinforcement fibre produced by carbonising a precursor, most commonly polyacrylonitrile (PAN) or pitch, to give continuous filaments composed largely of carbon. It offers very high stiffness and strength for its weight and is the principal reinforcement in high performance composites. Grades are commonly described by modulus class, such as standard, intermediate and high modulus.

Fibre drawn from molten glass, the most widely used reinforcement for polymer composites. Different formulations, such as E-glass, E-CR glass, S-glass and AR glass, balance cost, strength, electrical performance and chemical resistance. It is the standard reinforcement in GRP laminates, including liquid applied GRP flat roofing systems.

A gel spun fibre of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, offering exceptional strength for its weight together with very low moisture uptake and good chemical resistance. Its low surface energy makes bonding to resins difficult, and its use is limited by a low melting temperature and susceptibility to creep. Typical applications include ropes, slings, ballistic protection and impact resistant hybrid laminates.

A thermosetting resin based on molecules containing epoxide groups, cured by reaction with a hardener such as an amine or anhydride. Valued for strong adhesion, low cure shrinkage, chemical resistance and high mechanical performance, it is widely used in structural adhesives, laminating resins, coatings and composite matrices.