How does fiberglass compare to steel in strength?
Glass fibers are used to add tensile strength and stiffness (flexural modulus) to many plastics applications. Different lengths and diameters of glass fibers are used to impart the properties needed for particular applications. Consider, however, that you may be trying to compare “apples to oranges”. Depending on size and configuration, or reinforcing plastics, glass fibers will have different properties. In general, the properties will be high in tensile strength and stiffness, but low in impact strength (brittleness). Fiberglass also weighs considerably less than steel. Q: I am developing an electronic module to be sold as an aftermarket automotive product. What standards and safety regulations apply to plastics used to house an electric circuit? A: All plastics used in automobiles must meet specifications to ensure that the particular part performs satisfactorily. There are specific materials specifications, usually ISO values, such as tensile strength, impact strength, flexural mod
