Abstract: A metal-polymer laminate has a bidirectional reinforcing layer containing about 45-70 vol. % high strength glass fibers. The bidirectional reinforcing layer includes a center layer containing glass fibers oriented generally parallel to a first direction; and first and second outer layers each reinforced with glass fibers oriented in a second direction extending generally transverse to the first direction. The bidirectional laminate is suitable for use in aircraft flooring and other applications requiring improved impact strength.

Abstract: Laminate displaying improved blunt notch behavior, so that it is suitable for use as a construction material in aviation and cosmonautics. It comprises an intermediate layer of synthetic material reinforced by continuous glass filaments having a modulus of elasticity of at least 80 GPa. The glass filaments contain at least 58-69% by weight of SiO.sub.2, 18-29% by weight of Al.sub.2 O.sub.3, and MgO. Preferably, they have a tenacity of at least 4 GPa, and an elongation at break of at least 4%. The synthetic material may be an amorphous thermoplastic resin having a Tg>140.degree. C. such as, e.g., polarylates, poly(ether)sulfones, polyetherimides or poly-p-phenylene ethers, or a semi- or para-crystalline resin having a crystalline melting point>170.degree. C., such as poly-phenylene sulfides, polyetherketones or liquid crystal polymers.