GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete)

GFRC, or Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete, is a composite material made from cement, water, fine aggregates, various additives (influencing texture, color, de-molding, etc.), and fibers.

Please refer to the Dry-Mix additives section for details on the products used as GFRC accelerators, binders and specialty cement, retarders, water reducers, fillers, and pigment additives, as they are interchangeable for this application.

In addition to the essential ingredients above, GFRC may include various additives and admixtures to enhance its properties. For example, specialty cement such as Calcium Aluminate Cement (CAC) or Calcium Sulfoaluminate (CSA) can be used to improve the setting time and strength of the GFRC mixture.

Polymers such as acrylics, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), or polyvinyl acetate (PVA) can be added to improve the workability and flexibility of the GFRC mixture, as well as to reduce shrinkage and crack.

Other additives, such as pigments, pozzolans, and mineral admixtures, may also be used to enhance the color, texture, and durability of GFRC.

The glass fibers used in GFRC are typically made from chopped strands of alkali-resistant glass mixed into the concrete mixture to add strength and durability. However, different types of fibers, such as carbon, basalt, or aramid fibers, may also be added to the GFRC mixture to enhance its strength and durability further.

Some of the benefits of GFRC include the following:

• Lightweight: GFRC is much lighter than traditional concrete, which makes it easier to handle and transport. It is often used when weight is a concern, such as in constructing cladding panels, decorative elements, or architectural facades.
• High strength: GFRC has excellent compressive, flexural, and tensile power, which makes it a durable and long-lasting material. It can be used in various structural and non-structural applications, such as in constructing bridges, tunnels, or commercial buildings.
• Design flexibility: GFRC can be molded and shaped into various forms and textures, making it a versatile material for architectural and decorative applications. It can be cast into intricate shapes, patterns, and textures and can be colored or finished to mimic the appearance of natural stone or other materials.
• Durability: GFRC is resistant to weathering, corrosion, and fire, which makes it a durable and low-maintenance material for a variety of applications. It is often used in harsh environments or exposed to extreme weather conditions.