Chopped Strand Mat (CSM) Emulsion Bound
Chopped Strand Mat (CSM) – Emulsion Bound
Chopped Strand Mat (CSM) Emulsion Bound is a versatile fibreglass reinforcement made from randomly distributed chopped glass fibres held together with an emulsion binder. Designed for fast wet-out and easy handling, it is widely used in hand layup, spray-up, and general fibreglass manufacturing applications.
The random fibre orientation provides multidirectional strength and excellent conformity over curves and complex mould shapes, making it a staple reinforcement in marine, automotive, and general composite fabrication.
Key Features
- Random fibre orientation for multidirectional reinforcement
- Fast wet-out and easy resin absorption
- Excellent conformability over curves and contours
- Smooth laminate build-up and good bulk properties
- Easy to cut, shape, and laminate
- Suitable for general-purpose fibreglass applications
Typical Applications
- Boat and marine construction
- Fibreglass repairs and maintenance
- Automotive panels and mouldings
- Tooling and mould manufacture
- General composite fabrication
- Laminate bulk build-up layers
Processing Compatibility
Suitable for:
- Hand laminating
- Spray-up applications
- Compression moulding
Compatible with:
- Polyester resins
- Vinyl ester resins
Not generally recommended for epoxy resin systems due to emulsion binder compatibility.
Why Use Emulsion Bound CSM
Emulsion-bound CSM provides excellent handling and flexibility, allowing it to easily conform to complex mould surfaces while creating uniform laminate thickness. It is commonly used to:
- Build laminate thickness quickly
- Improve interlaminar bonding between woven reinforcements
- Reduce print-through from heavier fabrics
- Create strong, economical fibreglass laminates
Available Options
- Multiple weights available
- Standard roll widths
- General-purpose and marine-grade options
Ironbark Tip
For best results:
- Fully wet out the mat to eliminate dry fibres
- Consolidate with laminating rollers to remove trapped air
- Layer with woven fibreglass fabrics for improved structural performance









