What Makes Fiberglass Popular for Ballistic Wall Panels?

Of the more than 48,000 gun-related deaths in the U.S. in 2022, about 40% were homicides. Multilevel efforts to prevent injury and death include using physical barriers inside buildings to protect people and property. There are many materials on the market, but one of the most popular remains fiberglass.

Fiberglass is an artificial composite material made from tiny glass fibers. In the past, contractors used it as loose fill or in rolls for insulation. Today, manufacturers also produce bulletproof fiberglass panels by embedding glass fibers in a polymer resin.

Is Fiberglass Bulletproof?

Fiberglass is not inherently bulletproof, but it can be fabricated into products for that purpose. Manufacturers make and test ballistic panels specifically for bulletproofing, so fiberglass products designed for other uses will not stop bullets.

Benefits of Ballistic Fiberglass Panels

There are many reasons why bulletproof fiberglass wall panels are so popular:

Fiberglass absorbs impact effectively: Fiberglass ballistic panels are made from multiple layers of woven fiberglass, with small holes or pockets between the fiber. When a bullet penetrates the panel, the layers separate, stopping the bullet and absorbing the force. Manufacturers test and certify the ballistic protection offered by wall panels, ensuring compliance with building and safety codes.
Bulletproof fiberglass is effective at reducing secondary threats: When bullets encounter some rigid materials, they can ricochet, deflect, or spall, causing additional projectiles or shattered fragments that pose a significant secondary risk of injury. Fiberglass panels absorb and “grip” bullets without spalling or ricocheting.
The material is light and easy to work with: Lightweight ballistic panels made from fiberglass can be part of a retrofit or new build and incorporated into walls, ceilings, and other structures to provide a customizable, invisible level of protection. Unlike other ballistic materials, bulletproof fiberglass panels don’t have to be thick to be effective, and in many cases, traditional contractors can install them.
Fiberglass ballistic panels are flexible: They come in different grades, with some engineered to stop handguns and the most advanced panels capable of stopping military rifles, including long-range rifles, offering a range of protection under UL 752 Levels 1-8. Custom-sized sheets are available to fit any space, making them suitable for schools, security booths, and many other applications.

Contact Us

U.S. Bullet Proofing offers USFA Fiberglass Wall Armor for a range of applications. Request a quote for ballistic panels or reach out to speak with a member of our team to find a solution for your needs.