(Dept. of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Mokpo National University)
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(Dept. of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Mokpo National University)
Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) composites have been used for small fishing boats and leisure boats for many years. These composites have different physical characteristics, depending on the constitution of lay-up and manufacturing method. Recently, new manufacturing methods, such as vacuum infusion, have been used to make the composites lighter and stronger. In this research, the mechanical properties of fiberglass reinforcements with constitution of lay-up, manufacturing method, and two different resins were investigated experimentally. It was found that the mechanical properties of FRP composites increased with increasing thickness, with the use of vacuum infusion method, and with the use of vinyl ester resin. The mechanical properties of diverse FRP composites can be used as a practical guide for selecting appropriate materials for specific applications.