Resins in FRP
Plastic resins are the formable matrix within the composite. Resins, broadly defined, encompass a large class of synthetic products that have some of the physical properties of natural resins but are different chemically and are used chiefly in the manufacturing of plastics, fiberglass, and other composites.
Virtually all of the physical properties (chemical, electrical, and thermal) are strongly influenced by the resin. Most resins used in composites are the thermosetting type – once formed they cannot be reformed, and they do not melt or flow. Thermoplastics are also used in lower temperature applications. Furthermore, the use of organic or inorganic additives may be used to gain functionality of the finished FRP product.
Beetle FRP Resin Guides
These guides describe the various resins Beetle uses to fabricate FRP tanks, pipe, ductwork, and other custom fabrications. These documents present detailed chemical resistance data needed to assist engineers in specifying and designing corrosion resistant and other FRP applications.
- Hetron and Aropol Resin Selection Guide (PDF)
- Derakane Eopxy Vinyl Ester Resins Chemical Resistance Guide (PDF)
- AOC Corrosion Resistant Resin Guide (PDF)
Resin Types
- Polyester
- Vinyl Ester
- Epoxy
- Polyurethane
- Pehnolic
- Hybrid
Polyester Resins are thermoset polyesters. They are versatile, offer good dimensional stability, and have good mechanical, chemical-resistance, and electrical properties.
Vinyl Ester Resins are stronger than polyesters and more resilient than epoxy resins. They are flexible (double bonded vinyl group) in nature and are useful when creating products that are designed to withstand flexing, impacts or compression.
Epoxy Resins have an extended range of properties when compared to polyester and vinyl ester resins. They demonstrate extremely low shrinkage, good dimensional stability, high temperature resistance, as well as good fatigue and adherence to reinforcements. In addition, they have excellent resistance to basic (alkali) environments/solutions.
Polyurethane Resins are known throughout the fiberglass industry for their durability and robustness. They are flexible in nature and can be used in a wide variety of applications.
Pehnolic Resins posses many desirable attributes in the fiberglass world. They offer formability to complex contours, as well as flexibility. They are heat and chemical resistant and demonstrate flame retardance. They are ideal for high temperature applications where parts/components must meet fire safety, smoke emission, and combustion and toxicity requirements. In addition, they also have electrical non-conductivity characteristics.
Hybrid Resins are unique in that they are a customized blend of various resins and reinforcements; to create superior properties that allow you to optimize your design and product.
