| Abstract: | Short glass fibers for reinforcements of plastics have been commercially produced for over three decades. During this period, they have been used in virtually every polymer, as well as in other matrices, such as concrete and plaster. Their tensile strength/cost performance is still three times that of Kevlar® and more than 30 times better than carbon fibers. Similarly, excellent modulus/cost performance and high temperature/cost performance can be achieved. This article gives a review of short-fiber composites: their properties and use. Included is a comparison of compounding vs. in-house blending, fiber/flake hybrids, and reinforced polymer blends. Finally, several new materials still in development stages will be examined. |
