Composition

E-glass is a low alkali glass with a typical nominal composition of sio2 54wt%,Cao+Mgo 22wt%,B2O3 10wt% and Na2O+k2O less than 2wt%. Some other materials may also be present at impurity levels.

Key Properties

Properties that have made E-glass so popular in fiberglass and other glass fiber reinforced composite include:

1.Low cost

2.High production rates

3.High strength 

4.High stiffness

5.Relatively low density

6.Non-flammable

7.Resistant to heat

8.Good chemical resistance

9.Relatively insensitive to moisture

10.Able to maintain strength properties over a wide range of conditions

11.Good electrical insulation

Applications Composite Materials

The use of E-glass fiber as the reinforcement material in polymer matrix composities extremely common.Optimal strength properties are gained when straight,condinuous fibers are aligned parallel in a single direction .To promote strength in other direction,laminate structures can be constructed,with continuous fibers aligned in other directions.Such structures are used in storage tanks and the like.

Random direction matts and woven fabrics are also commonly used for the production of composite panels,surfboards and other similar devices.

Background

E-glass fiber or electrical grade glass was originally developed for stand off insulators for electrical wiring.It was later found to have excellent fiber forming capabilities and is now used almost exclusively as the reinforcing phase in the material commonly known as fiberglass.