Though traditionally made in lighter weights (30–100 gsm), surface mats can also be used in combination with heavier reinforcement materials in multi-layer composite structures. Even in heavy-duty applications, the surface mat plays a crucial role in preventing fiber print-through, improving interlaminar bonding, and offering a chemically resistant barrier.

🧵 Material Structure:

• Fiber Type: E-glass (alkali-free, electrical-grade)

• Fiber Diameter: Typically 6–13 microns

• Fiber Orientation: Random

• Binder: Polyester, acrylic, or modified epoxy resin binder (emulsion-type or powder-type)

• Form: Roll (with core inner diameter 76 mm or 152 mm)

🧪 Technical Data Sheet (TDS) – Typical Parameters:

💡 Key Features:

• ✅ Smooth surface finish: Provides a resin-rich surface layer that minimizes fiber print-through, ideal for exposed FRP surfaces.

• ✅ Improved corrosion resistance: Acts as a barrier layer against water, chemical agents, and environmental factors.

• ✅ Enhanced bonding: Helps improve the bond between the gel coat and the structural mat, enhancing composite integrity.

• ✅ Superior surface quality: Used in applications where aesthetics matter — such as automotive panels, doors, tanks, and bathroom fixtures.

• ✅ Lightweight & conformable: Easily conforms to complex molds and curves, ensuring full resin impregnation.

⚙️ Manufacturing Applications:

• Hand Lay-Up & Spray-Up Molding

• Filament Winding (Liner Layer)

• Resin Transfer Molding (RTM)

• Pultrusion (as a surface wrap)

• Vacuum Infusion Process (VIP)

🏭 Common End Uses:

• Bathtubs, shower stalls, and bathroom fixtures

• FRP tanks and pipes (as corrosion liner)

• Electrical enclosures

• Car body panels and automotive parts

• Architectural panels and cladding

• Marine parts and surfboards

🧾 Quality Standards:

Surface mats are typically manufactured according to the following industry standards:

• ASTM D578 – Standard Specification for Glass Fiber Strands

• ISO 2078 – Textile Glass – Yarns – Designation

• ISO 2797 / 2798 – Mat and Roving Tests

• RoHS / REACH compliant

📦 Packaging & Handling:

• Rolls wrapped in PE film, packed in cartons or pallets

• Must be stored in a dry, shaded environment

• Avoid direct contact with moisture or sunlight

• Shelf life: 12 months (if stored properly)

🔄 Customization Options:

Manufacturers may offer customization in:

• GSM (gram per square meter)

• Binder type (e.g., epoxy-compatible)

• Roll width and core diameter

• Flame retardant or chemically enhanced versions