TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF GLASS FIBER REINFORCED POLYMERS (GFRP) AND CARBON FIBER REINFORCED POLYMERS (CFRP)

The introduction highlights that composite materials made of polymers reinforced with carbon fiber (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced polymers (GFRP) are frequently used for energy absorption in modern vehicles. The raw material base for the production of glass fiber and carbon fiber has been investigated. The advantages and disadvantages of the most common raw materials are outlined, along with the specific technological operations involved in the production of composite materials based on them. It is noted that glass fiber (GFs) is currently considered one of the most adaptable production materials due to its availability and the ease of manufacturing using abundant raw material resources. The essence of the main technological operations in the production of composite materials from glass fiber is described. A schematic representation of the industrial stages of fiberglass production is provided. The results of previous studies on the mechanical properties of fiberglass are presented, and methods for improving the properties of the finished composite material are suggested. The methods of production, properties (mechanical, vibrational, environmental, tribological, and thermal), advantages, limitations, and main areas of application of composites based on glass fiber and carbon fiber are thoroughly reviewed.