All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(175 products available)
Ready to Ship
Glass-fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) panels are architectural precast products made of cement, sand, water, and polymers. They contain fiberglass that replaces steel reinforcements in traditional concrete. The GFRC panels have different types based on application, design, and construction. Here are the types:
Based on application
The GFRC panels are categorized according to where they are used. Architectural panels are used for facades, walls, and interior designs. They can be used as load-bearing or non-load-bearing elements. Roofing panels are specifically designed for use as roofs. They are lightweight, strong, and weather-resistant. The structural panels are reinforced with fibers, offering enhanced strength and durability. The decorative panels are aesthetically pleasing. They come in different finishes, textures, and colors.
Based on design
The GFRC panels are also categorized based on design. Flat panels have a smooth, contemporary look that is minimalist. They are suitable for modern architecture. Textured panels have patterns or textures cast directly into the surface. These can range from stucco-like finishes to stone imitations. They add depth and visual interest. The molded panels have shapes or designs created using molds. This allows for intricate designs. These panels enhance the beauty of a structure.
Based on construction
The GFRC panels are also classified based on construction methods. Cast panels are made by pouring the GFRC mixture into molds. This is similar to traditional concrete methods. The spray-up panels are created using a spray-up technique. The GFRC mixture is sprayed onto a mold to form a thick layer. This method requires a backing material like a polymer mold or foam core. The hybrid panels combine both cast and spray-up methods. They offer design flexibility and structural advantages.
Concrete panels (GRC panels) are architectural elements made of fiber-reinforced concrete cast into panels that can be used for facades, walls, and other applications. Their features include:
Lightweight
Although they are made of concrete, GRC panels are relatively lightweight. This is due to their composition, which includes fine cement, which replaces traditional concrete aggregates, and the use of synthetic fibers instead of steel reinforcement. These fibers can be alkali-resistant glass, polymeric, or polypropylene fibers. The reduction of the dead weight of the panels has made them easier to handle and install.
High strength and durability
The absence of steel reinforcement makes these panels more durable. The synthetic fibers used in their manufacture offer high tensile strength and resistance to impact. Additionally, GRC panels are made of concrete, making them resistant to abrasion, weathering, and other forms of deterioration.
Design Flexibility
GRC panels can be cast into different shapes, sizes, and textures. This allows for the creation of intricate designs, smooth or textured finishes, and customized sizes to fit specific architectural requirements. The surface of GRC panels can replicate the appearance of stone, brick, or other materials. This is important for aesthetic reasons since these panels can be made to fit any design requirement.
Environmental sustainability
Manufacturing GRC panels can incorporate waste materials such as industrial byproducts. Additionally, the long lifespan of GRC panels means that they do not need to be replaced often, which conserves resources. These panels are also recyclable, which helps to further conserve resources.
Fire resistance
Concrete is a non-combustible material, meaning it does not catch fire easily. This makes GRC panels meet or exceed building code requirements for fire-rated walls. Their thickness also provides a high level of protection against the spread of fire. This is important for safety considerations and for meeting legal requirements.
Improved Acoustic Performance
These panels can be designed to reduce sound transmission. Their mass and internal fibrous structure can dampen sound waves, making them suitable for applications where noise reduction is important. For example, in office buildings or hospitals.
Rapid construction
Their lightweight nature allows for easier handling and quicker installation than traditional cast-in-place concrete. Prefabrication of GRC panels can occur off-site, leading to faster construction times and improved quality control. This is important for project timelines and cost efficiency.
The GRC panel has a wide range of applications due to its unique features and properties. It is lightweight, durable, and can be molded into different shapes and sizes. Below are some common usage scenarios:
Architectural Applications
GRC panels are used in building construction. It is used to create facade cladding systems, architectural panels, decorative moldings, columns, and pilasters. It is also used for canopies and awnings, entrance features, and building crowns. Its lightweight nature makes it suitable for applications where reducing structural load is important. Its ability to be cast into different shapes and forms enables intricate architectural designs and details.
Infrastructure Projects
These panels are used for infrastructure projects. They are used for bridge and overpass cladding, retaining walls, sound barrier walls, and tunnel linings. They can also be used for decorative elements in public infrastructure. Their durability ensures they can withstand harsh weather conditions and environmental stresses. GRC panels offer excellent impact resistance and structural integrity. They provide a cost-effective long-term solution by reducing maintenance and repair costs.
Commercial and Institutional Buildings
GRC panels are popularly used in institutional and commercial buildings. These include hospitals, schools, universities, government buildings, museums, and cultural centers. Their customizability allows for branding and identity through unique designs and logos. GRC panels can be tailored to meet specific functional requirements, such as acoustic performance and energy efficiency. They enhance the visual appeal and prestige of institutional and commercial building structures.
Residential Applications
GRC panels are also used for residential applications. They are used for exterior cladding, decorative features (such as sculptures and reliefs), fencing and screening, and interior feature walls. GRC panels offer a classic or contemporary aesthetic due to their versatility in style. They provide a seamless and low-maintenance exterior cladding solution. These panels are also resistant to rot, termites, and other pests, offering long-term durability.
Landscaping and Outdoor Areas
GRC panels can be used for landscaping and outdoor activities. They are used for decorative walls, planters and seating, water features, and sculptures. It can also be used for commercial applications, including branded and customized furniture and fixtures. GRC panels mimic the appearance of stone, wood, or metal, offering design versatility. They are customizable in size, shape, and finish to suit specific landscaping and design requirements.
When selecting GRC panels for sale, buyers should consider the following factors to ensure they meet the requirements of their construction projects.
Type and Design
GRC panels come in different designs such as architectural wall panels, precast concrete panels or decorative elements like facades, columns and canopies. Each type has a different application and purpose. Also, GRC panels have different finishes like smooth, textured, or patterned. The finish affects the aesthetics and functionality of the panel.
Structural Requirements
Business owners should consider the load-bearing capacity and structural integrity of the GRC panels. This is to ensure they are suitable for their intended use. Additionally, they should check the panel thickness. The thickness affects the strength and stability of the panel. GRC panels with high strength-to-weight ratio offer better structural support and are easier to install.
Durability and Environmental Resistance
Buyers should look for GRC panels that are durable and weather resistant. These panels should be resistant to impact, ultraviolet light, moisture and extreme temperatures. GRC panels with high resistance to environmental elements tend to have a longer lifespan. Business owners should also look for panels with corrosion and fire-resistant properties.
Aesthetic and Finish
GRC panels come in different colors and textures. Business owners should choose GRC panels that complement the existing building or the architectural design of the building being constructed. GRC panels can also be customized to meet specific requirements. Buyers should look for manufacturers who offer customization options like size, shape, design and finish.
Installation
Business owners should look for GRC panels that are easy and cost effective to install. They should consider the panel weight, as light panels are easy to handle and install. Also, they should consider the type of adhesive or fasteners required during installation. Proper panel installation improves their functionality and structural integrity.
Maintenance
GRC panels require regular maintenance to ensure they function properly and last longer. Buyers should look for panels that require low maintenance. They should consider the cleaning requirements and long-term maintenance costs. GRC panels with high resistance to stains and dirt are easy to maintain.
Q1: What are GRC panels used for?
A1: GRC panels can be used in different applications, including architectural cladding, precast concrete walls, facades, canopies, interior walls, partitions, ceiling finishes, and exterior walls.
Q2: What are the disadvantages of GRC?
A2: GRC has some disadvantages, including high initial costs, requiring skilled installation, and potential cracking if not installed correctly. It also has a relatively lower impact resistance than some other cladding materials.
Q3: How long do GRC panels last?
A3: GRC panels can last for decades, typically 30-40 years, depending on the installation, exposure conditions, and maintenance. They are durable and provide a long lifespan when properly installed and maintained.
Q4: What are GFRC panels made of?
A4: GFRC panels are made of cement, sand, water, polymer emulsion, alkali-resistant glass fibers, and additives. This mixture forms a strong, lightweight, and versatile panel.
Q5: What is the difference between GRC and GFRC?
A5: GRC stands for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete and includes materials like polymer-modified mortars. GFRC specifically refers to concrete that uses polymer additives for strength and weight reduction. The main difference lies in their fiber and polymer content.
