In the composite material field, flame – retardant FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) grating has become a versatile and essential product, with its features, applications, manufacturing process, and significance in various industries drawing wide attention.​

Flame – retardant FRP grating is made of glass fiber as the reinforcing material, a resin matrix, and special flame – retardant additives. Glass fibers provide strength and rigidity, while the resin binds them and shapes the grating. The additives work through releasing non – combustible gases to dilute oxygen or forming a char layer to block heat transfer, thus endowing fire resistance. Commonly used resins like polyester, vinyl ester, and phenolic resins each have distinct flame – retardant, chemical – resistant, and mechanical properties. For instance, phenolic resins excel in fire resistance with a low flame spread index, and E – glass or S – glass fibers are selected based on strength and cost needs.​

This grating boasts multiple outstanding characteristics. Its flame – retardant performance meets strict standards, with high – quality products having a low flame spread index, for example, less than 25 for polyester – based ones and less than 10 for some vinyl ester – based ones, effectively preventing fire spread. It also resists corrosion from a variety of chemicals, making it suitable for harsh environments like chemical plants and marine industries. Compared with steel and concrete, it’s lightweight yet strong, with a density around 1.8 – 2.0 g/cm³, facilitating installation while bearing heavy loads. Highly durable, it withstands weathering, UV radiation, and temperature changes, lasting decades in many applications. Many products feature slip – resistant surfaces, enhancing safety in wet or oily conditions.​

These properties make flame – retardant FRP grating widely applicable across industries. In chemical plants, it’s used for platforms and walkways, enduring chemical exposure and reducing fire risks. In the oil and gas industry, especially offshore, its lightweight and corrosion – resistant features are crucial, while in refineries, its flame – retardant property matters due to flammable substances. In power plants, it serves in control rooms, transformer yards, and boiler rooms, providing a safe, non – conductive, and heat – resistant surface. Water and wastewater treatment plants utilize it for walkways and platforms, coping with corrosive substances and potential fires. In architecture, it’s applied indoors for fire – safe flooring and outdoors for durable walkways and staircases.​

The manufacturing process starts with preparing the resin, mixing it with additives, and degassing. Then, glass fibers are placed in the mold using methods like hand – layup, spray – up, or filament winding. Finally, the mold is closed, and the resin is cured under controlled heat and pressure, followed by finishing processes.​

Looking ahead, research focuses on advanced flame – retardant technologies, such as nanocomposites and eco – friendly additives. Customization is increasing with the help of CAD and simulation tools. Integration with smart technologies, like embedding sensors for real – time monitoring, is also on the horizon. Overall, flame – retardant FRP grating will continue to innovate and play a vital role in more industries.