Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete : Composition and Properties

Glass-Fiber-Reinforced-Concrete

Fiberglass reinforcement is oftentimes a confusing and misunderstood topic. The method to increase mechanical characteristics of a material is called reinforcement. Many engineers who understand material science have a deep knowledge and study of this engineer-friendly material. For many purposes, it is taught to engineering students because it is the most widely recognized form of reinforcement with fiber.

Composition

GFRC is glass fiber reinforced concrete and it is a composite. It is the equivalent to steel reinforcement as per convention. But better! It is a high strength fiberglass embedded in a complicated and cementitious matrix. While retaining their physical attributes and chemical identities, the combination of both fiber and matrix provides enhancement and strength, but when alone, they certainly would not provide the same result.

Properties

The properties of each function in such a way that; the fiber carries the load, while the matrix provides endurance and stability. When combined together, these two factors are able to handle very heavy loads, as well as prevent corrosive and chemical or weather erosion. GFRC is lightweight and durable which can be cast into multiple shapes along with textures and colors as desired. One of the major qualities is the strength both ingredients bring to the table. Both the high dosage of glass fibers and acrylic polymer give it tensile enhancement strength as less water to cement is used resulting in a lower cement ratio. It is far superior to regular concrete and offers higher flexural strength. Also, its designed to reinforce and bring durable stability to anything it casts in either concrete or GFRC. And thus, a great choice to be used in complex, 3D shells which are required to be light and sturdy.

Today, more manufacturers exist for this revolutionary market but have seen little growth in its share of market value. But it’s slowly gaining in popularity throughout the middle east, for example, for its thermal insulation. Across the globe, engineers have begun to understand how to use many other fiberglass reinforced materials like GFRP rebar such as the USA, Europe, and Asia. This change in attitude helps to understand the underlying capabilities of fiberglass and concrete with the future of construction and infrastructure.

History and application

GFRC was first used and originally developed in Russia but it wasn’t until the 1970s that saw it transform to its current state. First seen as lightweight facades, its applications have broadened to cater to infrastructural construction. GFRC is also manufactured to be utilized as panels and requires low maintenance. The nonstructural panels can withstand its own weight and other external factors such as weather and seismic anomalies which is why it’s used in a number of other architectural ornamental applications, restorations, and replacements, fireplaces, countertops and more.

Benefits

  • GFRC is extremely durable and can outlive steel reinforced concrete. It’s also safe and reliable.
  • Design Freedom. GFRC is made from mold-state so it can take up any shape and texture along with color.
  • Requires minimum to low maintenance.
  • Resistant to climate and fires.
  • Cost effective and economical.

Tuf-Bar specializes in the manufacturing of high-quality fiberglass rebar and accessories. With shipping worldwide, our products are made with strict controls and we ensure every product is in compliance with CSA and ACI building codes.