Fact Box: Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG)

IIT-Madras develops new technology for mass housing
Researchers in the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) have developed a method of design and construction to make use of Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) panels to construct rapid, cost-effective mass housing. The institute has also inaugurated a ‘GFRG demo building’ comprising four flats in a two-storeyed building has been constructed inside the campus.
What is GFRG?

• Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) is comprised of a mixture of raw gypsum and cement, laminated to layers of long strand, continuous glass fiber matting.

What are the applications of GFRG?

• GFRG can be used wherever a light, strong and fire retardant material is required (casinos, hotels, theaters, residential, etc.). GFRG is for use where it is not subject to dampness.
• It should not be exposed to rain or for fountains, pools or wet locations. It is used inMoldings, Ceilings, Columns, Light coves, Bas Relief, Domes, Capitals, Fireplace Surrounds, Medallions, Custom shapes etc.

What is special about GFRG?

• GFRG is a mineral and will not burn. In addition, the nature of gypsum acts like a thermal regulator when exposed to flame.
• GFRG is not only incombustible, but it also protects the materials behind it from the heat of the flame for up to two hours.
• GFRG is relatively light in weight compared to traditional stone or plaster ornaments.
• Its installation is quick and relatively easy.
•  GFRG can be cast to virtually any shape.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2013

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs