Glass Fibre Reinforced Cement

Abstract Glass fibre reinforced cement is introduced as a new composite material, based on a matrix of cement or cement and fine filler reinforced with a relatively small addition of strands of alkali-resistant glass. The glass content is relatively low, being restricted by increasing difficulty of mixing and compacting as the glass content is increased. For any method of mixing and placing and varying with the mix proportions there is an optimum value of glass content in relation to bending strength; impact strength rises steadily with glass content. When premixing an additive is required, commonly polyethylene oxide or methylcellulose. Premixed formulations can be placed by tamping and vibration, pumping or extrusion. An effective method is to mix and place simultaneously by spraying the matrix as a slurry into a stream of chopped glass fibre from a spray chopper. The combined sprays are directed on to a suction mould where excess water is removed. Properties of composites prepared by the various methods are compared. The impact strength and fire resistance of glass fibre reinforced cement are particularly good. Examples of practical applications are given.