Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) is a composite material that consists of a polymer matrix with glass reinforced. GRC uses alkali-resistant glass reinforced as the principal tensile-load carrying member. The polymer and concrete matrix serve to bind the reinforcement together and transfer loads from one reinforced to another via shear stresses through the matrix. The orientation of the reinforcement determines how effectively it resists the load.
Today, glass reinforced concrete (GRC) is used in a wide range of applications by designers, architects and engineers because of its flexible ability to meet durable performance and customized design. The properties of GRC can vary depending on the mix design, glass content, and production methods. GRC is fabricated by either spraying the concrete mixture and glass reinforced into forms or by pouring a pre-mixed GRC blend
Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) is made by using the following materials:
- Fine Sand
- Cement
- Polymer
- Water
- Admixtures
- AR glass reinforced
Various forms of glass-reinforced product applications
GRC cladding
GRC is widely used today for both new building construction and for recladding existing building facades. Glass Reinforced concrete cladding can be produced in a variety of shapes, colours and textures such as smooth concrete, bricks, terra cotta, wood grain etc. it can also be used as an alternative to solid stone blocks. GRC cladding panels are manufactured by the ‘Hand Spray’ technique. GRC cladding panels may be either individual panels and shapes that attach to the substrate or may be framed. GRC panels are widely used as the exterior facade material in the construction or renovation of many types of commercial and institutional buildings. They are available as wall units, window wall units, spandrels, mullions, and column covers, as well as for fascia panels, soffits, parapets, sunscreens, mansard roofs, and interior panels. Each panel is custom designed for the specific application, and their largest dimension can be either vertical or horizontal.
GRC Column
GRC columns are cladded in concrete columns to create the aesthetic appearance of the column element. The columns are available white smooth finish / pigmented /sand finish. They are available in different cap designs. These columns and head rails are moisture-resistant and have thermal insulation properties. These are high in strength, easy and convenient to install and are offered with a smooth surface finish. In natural calamities of wind/ Earthquake engineering, columns may be designed to resist lateral forces. Columns are frequently used to support beams or arches on which the upper parts of walls or ceilings rest. Durability, strength, and fade resistance are the main features of using GRC products
GRC Landscaping planters
GRC planter boxes are used in high-end commercial landscaping and architectural elements. The attraction of these GRC landscaping planters is eye-catching which attracts more and more eyes. These landscaping planters are available in different sizes and colours.
GRC Roofing
GRC roof panels are available in standard-size sheets. These panels are rigid, durable and have extremely low water absorption properties. GRC Roof panels can be moulded into complex shapes for roofing accessories such as finials and ridges and It is non-combustible with a high impact strength and can be used on all types of roofs.
GRC Floor
Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete (GRC) is a cementitious material that forms a complete bond with concrete sub and other floors. It can be easily installed on-site using standard construction tools.
GRC interior decoration with furniture
GRC is significantly lighter in weight and higher in tensile strength than conventional concrete, countertop slabs can be made without seams and span greater lengths. GRC can be cast using decorative form liners to create architectural wall panels that are thin and light while permitting more flexibility in shape, colour, and texture. GRC fireplace surrounds can span from floor to ceiling without requiring special reinforcement, and hearths and mantels can extend from wall to wall or be cantilevered to appear as if floating in the air. GRC can even be used outdoors to make artificial rock formations, permitting the creation of dramatic rock and waterscapes without the need to haul in heavy boulders.
GRC drainage
GRC finds utility in drainage through different drainage cover systems.GRC manhole covers are suitable to be used in all kinds of terrain from residential societies to roads. GRC manholes are made of top-grade composite material. The thermoset material of the manhole cover gives it long durability. The light, yet strong material is ideal and can withstand the heavy wear and tear of vehicular traffic GRC water drain covers are also used to cover stormwater drains and have perforations to collect water.
Conclusion
GRC is widely used for the aesthetic appearance as well as the durability of the products for both commercial and high-end residential projects.