Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC), a cementitious composite material, has been in use to produce different architectural materials since 30 years. When introduced in early 40′s the material did not gain popularity since the glass reinforcement lost its strength by the alkaline environment. Later in 70′s alkali resistant glass fibers were perfected by few European companies and the use of GFRC started as a new dawn in architectural materials advancement.
GFRC is used as thin (light weight) architectural cladding panels for masonry walls or in combination with other types of curtain walls. GFRC is also used for providing decorative skin to domes and other forms. Other than the above described usages, artisans have discovered numerous ways to use GFRC such as window surrounds, spandrels, column covers, soffits, moldings, cornices, brackets, fireplaces, artificial rockery, fountains, sculptures etc.
Apart from many benefits of GFRC the main benefit remains the weight and plasticity of the material. The weight of GFRC is almost 75% less than the weight of similar pieces cast in concrete by conventional methods. Flexural strength of GFRC could be as high as 4000 psi. Cracking of concrete doesn’t occur easily in GFRC . In addition to that GFRC can be cut without causing damage or chipping. GFRC is a good fire retardant.
There are two main methods for the fabrication of GFRC.
1. Hand Lay-up Method
in Hand lay-up or poured GFRC, once the molds have been made and are ready various layers of glass fiber mat and concrete are manually placed
2. Sprayed Method
Chopped strands of glass fibers are introduced into the concrete mix as it is being sprayed into the molds.
Due to its distinctive fabrication methods, GFRC could have different texture/surface finishes and colors. GFRC can be cast with limestone or precast finish or painted.
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