Polymers, resins and composites

Short fibre reinforced polymers are increasingly being used in engineering and consumer goods thanks to their ability to improve the stiffness, strength, impact resistance and toughness of the base resin/polymer.

Short cut fibre reinforcements can be processed in traditional production equipment for both thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers. Natural and biodegradable fibres are available for reinforcement in biopolymers such as starch or applications where the product must be capable of composting.

Nylon flocks are used to reinforce thermosetting resins for the compression moulding of electrical components, while cotton flocks are used extensively to thicken and reinforce epoxy resins to produce filleting grades. Cotton and cellulose flocks and fabric pieces reinforce phenolic resins and are also used to manufacture special phenolic based moulding powders. Composites reinforced by fibre flocks offer low warpage and excellent wear and abrasion resistance for applications including chain guides, gears, bearings, compressor vanes and impellers.

Some of the grades in current usage include cotton flocks CD 60, cotton fabric pieces DC, nylon flocks WN 60 and para-aramid flocks KEV 60 and KEV 3000.