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A durable & high strength material

Key features of GRC

Glassfibre reinforced concrete (GRC or GFRC) is a specialised form of concrete. It is a cement-based composite material with an aggregate mix, reinforced with alkali resistant glassfibres. The glassfibres add to the tensile, flexural, and impact strength of the material. This means that you can manufacture strong, lightweight architectural cladding for exterior facades and interior wall cladding.

GRC has three key benefits that makes the material ideal for both new builds and renovations.

Firstly, GRC is an extremely durable material with a lifespan of more than 100 years. The material is maintenance free, fire resistant, and weather resistant.

Secondly, the material is very lightweight and GRC elements are typically only 12 mm. This makes the elements easier to handle and install, while also reducing transportation costs.

Thirdly, GRC is exceptionally formable and versatile. The material can be shaped in any geometry and is suitable for both simple and complex shapes and curves. The surface can be detailed in an unlimited variety to create a bespoke architectural expression.

Below, you can read more detailed about the GRC material specifications and properties.

GRC material properties

GRC has a lifespan of more than 100 years and it will outlast conventional concrete, timber, and metal. The material is resistant to all kinds of weather and it will not rot, rust, dent, nor burn.

GRC has a significantly higher tensile and flexural strength compared other building materials, such as conventional concrete. The high tensile strength of GRC comes from the high quantity of glassfibres in the mixture. The addition of polymers increases the flexural strength making the material more resistant to cracking and bending.

GRC has a high strength-to-weight ratio as it is possible to manufacture elements as thin as 12 mm while still maintaining a high strength performance.

As a Full Member of GRCA, it is required to undergo an annual third-party evaluation, which includes strength testing to guarantee that high quality GRC.

GRC cladding requires no technical maintenance once mounted and it has a dense surface, increasing the resistance towards algae and dirt. Any patina caused by algae or dirt can be easily cleaned and it has no influence on the constructive function of the GRC elements.

You do not need to worry about replacement of the GRC elements as the material has a durability of more than 100 years. This long lifespan means that GRC will outlive many other building materials, including conventional concrete and timber. It will also contribute to reducing operating and maintenance costs.

GRC is an A1 classified material in accordance with EN 13501-1:2018.

GRC is resistance towards all kinds of weather - from freezing temperatures to extreme heat. GRC serves as a strong building envelope even in harsh climates with changing temperatures, heavy rain, strong winds, etc. The new generation of GRC has achieved an even better finish and a denser surface, which has increased the resistance towards algae and dirt.

GRC can be cast in very thin and low weight elements. This is achieved by using a special spray cast technique which ensures an optimal distribution of fibres and a low water/cement ratio.

Typically, GRC elements are as thin as 12 mm depending on the choice of aggregate and finish. The thinness and low weight of the GRC elements lessens the load on buildings and makes installation and handling easier.

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Mounting principles

Our mounting solutions offer a hidden and easy installation that requires minimal technical maintenance. Here you will find a collection of guidance principles for our various installation options. Our elements are typically produced with one the following mounting systems or a combination:

  • Stud-frame (embedded steel frame)
  • Embedded steel brackets
  • FA1000®
  • Embedded inserts
  • Recessed holes with plugs

Technical and material data

Learn about technical and material data, as well as delivery principles. 

Reference projects

Browse through some of our previous projects and find inspiration for your own project. Here you can see the many possibilities that come with working with GRC.

The reference projects include pictures, collaborators, and mounting system.

 

Danish reference projects

  • Mærsk Tower, Panum
  • Metropolis
  • Sorgenfrivang II
  • AARhus
  • KV Friheden

Swedish reference projects

  • Kviberg 
  • Uppsala Concert Hall
  • Kristallen
  • Jönsaplan - Hotel Öresund

Norwegian reference project

  • Mandal Hotel
  • Tingshuset

Czech Republic reference projects

  • AFI Vocovice

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