Lightweight, Corrosion-Resistant, Metal Replacement: Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) Screws (Under Development)
Lightweight, high-strength, and rust-proof—GFRP screws overcome the inherent weaknesses of steel fasteners.
Nittobo’s glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) screws are high-performance fastening components made of resin reinforced with long glass fibers. The most significant feature is their overwhelming lightness—less than one-third the weight of metal screws—while achieving superior strength through long-fiber reinforcement. This allows for drastic weight reduction by replacing conventional steel bolts. Functionally, these screws leverage the natural properties of GFRP to provide excellent electrical insulation, enhancing safety in electrical and electronic applications. Being non-metallic, they are completely free from rust and corrosion, ensuring a long service life even in harsh environments exposed to water or chemicals. Furthermore, they eliminate the issue of "galvanic corrosion" typically encountered when joining dissimilar metals, offering a highly reliable joining solution for multi-material designs. From mobility sectors aiming for improved fuel efficiency to infrastructure equipment, this developmental product brings innovation to every single bolt.