GFRC stands for “Glassfiber reinforced concrete,” and consists of concrete augmented with glass fibers. But in addition to the standard concrete elements and the glass, GFRC requires a range of ingredients. These contribute to the superior tensile strength, or ability to endure an impact, and durability of GFRC over standard concrete.
GFRC shares many of the same basic ingredients as concrete, although we use them at different ratios. These ratios and the addition of materials specific to GFRC are what make this product better able to withstand impacts and endure weather and time. The production time is also faster and the final product can be thinner and less than half the weight of concrete.
Materials We Use in GFRC
The ratio of materials in the GFRC mix, often known as the mix design, can be customized to best suit the way and place in which it will be used. The materials included in the mix design are:
- Portland Cement – The foundation of all concrete products, this acts as a binder to hold the other ingredients together in the GFRC.
- Sand – Sand works as an aggregate which forms the majority of concrete products. The size of the granules used determine the durability, texture, and weight of finished GFRC pieces, among other things.
- Water – Water works with the portland cement to create a paste that keeps the entire mixture bound. GFRC uses a lower ratio of water to other materials than standard concrete.
- Glass Fibers – We use glass fibers that are alkali resistant, meaning they won’t degrade over time due to the alkaline content of portland cement. These fibers are what give the GFRC its tensile strength and lighter weight.
- Polymer – Containing acrylic solids mixed with liquid, this additive enables the GFRC to cure in a day instead of the weeklong curing process of traditional concrete. The polymer also helps maintain GFRC strength over time and minimizes water absorption after installation.
- Chemical Additives – Other additives, like plasticizers, help make the GFRC easy to work with and mould despite the lower water content. These can be adjusted based on the purpose of the GFRC.
At GC Products, we use 100% recycled products. This further improves the sustainability of GFRC beyond the already low water usage in manufacturing and the longevity of the GFRC.
With decades of experience in GFRC manufacturing, we have perfected our mixing process. All of our custom made GFRC uses a mixture of ingredients that will create the right look and maintain its durability for years to come. Contact us to learn more about the science behind GFRC or get started with a custom order.