How did fishpaper get its name?

Question

Fishpaper is a vulcanized paper used for electrical insulation. Commonly used to indulate the bottom of a printed circuit board.

I was wondering how it got its name, was it named after its inventor?  Don't think this stuff would have been practicle to wrap fish in due to its expense and thickness. It was manufactured specifically as insulation. So idiots need not respond with wrapping fish etc as an answer.

If possible please provide a source or reference.

David Beierl · Accepted Answer

I can't swear to this but it sounds extremely plausible.  From http://www.rane.com/par-f.html

[quote]
fishpaper An insulating paper, often fiber- or oilcloth-like, used in the construction of transformers and coils. [Historical Note: Alvin G. Sydor writes: "In 1729 Stephen Gray made the discovery of the conducting and non-conducting power of different substances. Gray found that by using woven silk served as an excellent insulator. Some years later it was found that the paper industry could provide what was equivalent to woven silk. Later it was discovered that if the paper was saturated with fish oil its ability as an insulator was much improved particularly when used in harsh environments and high voltages."]
[/quote]

I suspect what we presently call fish paper is a descendant of the above, though fish are no longer involved.

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Fish Paper

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How did fishpaper get its name?

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