Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC)

https://www.papertostone.com/article/gfrc-construction-look-latest-technology-advantages-limitations

Composition

1. Cement: Generally Portland cement is used.
2. Aggregates: Fine aggregates are used in general in the making of GFRC
3. Glass fibres: Continuous filament and alkali resistant fibres are preferred
4. Polymers: Acrylic polymers are preferred

Advantages

• The GFRC is very light in weight and as well as it is flexible. A concrete cladding which is made from 100mm thick precast concrete weighs greater than twice that is made of GFRC.
• In appearances column, the GFRC being flexible gives the ability of recreating many architectural styles and designs. The surface details can be made again with the help of GFRC, also its appearance can be made like that of marble, terracotta, slate or stone.
• The GFRC is cheaper than other building materials that are available in the market.
• The high tensile strength and impact strength of GFRC makes it stronger than plain concrete as GFRC has glass fibre present in it.
• GFRC can be moulded into various numbers of textures, colours, surface finishes making it one of the most versatile materials in the market.
• The GFRC is chemical resistant.
• Another advantage of it is that GFRC is more durable as it doesn’t rust or corrode.
• It has better shrinkage properties when compared to plain concrete.
• It is inorganic in nature and is also fire resistant.
• The low permeability of GFRC increases it’s resistance to water and air pollution.
• It is environmental friendly

Disadvantages

• Though it is cheaper than many materials used for construction, the GFRC is still costlier than concrete.
• The GFRC is known to lose its strength over long period of time.
• A lot of forward planning is required when using GFRC as it made pre-cast in comparison to on-site.

Case Study

• The Broad Museum