Print-through

A pigmented, resin-rich surface coat applied to the mould face before laminating, which cures to form the smooth, weather-resistant outer surface of a GRP moulding. It protects the underlying laminate from moisture and UV exposure and provides the colour and gloss of the finished part.

A ready-to-mould sheet of chopped glass or carbon fibre, mineral filler and thermosetting resin, compression moulded under heat and pressure into stiff parts with good surface finish. SMC is widely used for vehicle body panels, electrical enclosures and building components.

A composite construction in which two thin, stiff skins are bonded to a thick, lightweight core such as foam, honeycomb or balsa. Separating the skins raises bending stiffness dramatically for very little added weight.