FRP Panels (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) or Glass fiber reinforced plastic (GRP) is a composite construction material resulting from the combination of unsaturated polyester based resin used as a binder with glass fiber. Glass Fiber is a high, flexible material, especially its heat resistance. Plastics, on the other hand, is a material that is flexible but does not have sufficient mechanical strength. When these two materials are combined with polyster based resin by using different molding techniques from simple molding techniques to complicated molding techniques, a new generation of composite building material with high mechanical, thermal and chemical resistance which we give to GRP is obtained.
FRP Panels: High Performance in Ceiling and Wall Panels
Commercial applications benefit from cost-effective materials that stand up to harsh conditions.
When it comes to selecting the right building material for the project at hand, architects have many options. Natural materials like wood, metal and stone may be right when beauty and durability are key. But manmade materials also have their place, particularly when cost and ability to stand up to demanding environments are critical design considerations. Technology has enabled the production of fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) to provide the characteristics needed to simulate – and often surpass – many of the performance characteristics of traditional materials. Just as durable, frequently stronger and typically more cost effective, lighter, easier to clean and install, FRP has a 60-year track record as solutions for industrial and commercial challenges, particularly those with corrosive environments
FRP wall and ceiling panels are widely used throughout the construction and building materials industries. They are used extensively in commercial applications such as food, meat and dairy processing plants, labs and clean rooms, refrigerated warehouses, and chemical processing plants. FRP panels are also appropriate for restaurant kitchens, public washrooms, super markets and high traffic areas. Because of their sanitary properties, FRP panels are also used in the health care industry from nursing homes and day care centers and in educational settings from dormitories to schools and locker rooms.
Manufacturers offer a range of products to meet diverse design objectives. Lightly textured or high-gloss gel coat FRP panels can be used in “front room” areas where a sanitary and durable yet aesthetically pleasing finish is needed, as in an educational or public setting. FRP panels can also be laminated to a rigid substrate such as gypsum, plywood, fluted polypropylene, or oriented strand board, providing added structural strength and rigidity and allowing installation directly to studs on the wall or ceiling.
Mold-, Mildew-, Stain- and Bacteria-resistant
Per ASTM D373 or D3274, FRP panels do not support mold or mildew as do wood and paper-faced drywall. The panels are moisture resistant and easy to clean, and can withstand repeated cleanings without surface deterioration.
Ease of Installation
FRP panels are a fast and easy way to add a fresh new look to your home. They can be installed with common carpenter’s tools, and are easy to cut and fit over drywall or other flat, dry surfaces in both renovation and new construction projects. Wall and ceiling panels can be installed directly over ceramic tile.When attaching objects to a wall, be sure to use an adhesive that is specifically designed for use on porous surfaces. For installation over concrete block, ensure that the surface is levelled and properly cured before using the adhesive. If a concrete or block wall is below grade, use furring strips and mechanical fasteners to secure the panels. The panels are resistant to moisture and expansion.
FRP Panels Vs Other Materials
FRP compares favorably to other materials in a number of respects:
Ceramic tile. Tile must be cleaned at a greater frequency than FRP panels. With tile, dirt, mildew and staining in the grout lines are common. Tiles can also crack and shatter and can be difficult to replace. Usually ceramic tiles cost twice as much as FRP materials.
Stainless steel. This material dents easily upon impact and its surface shows any abrasion marks. Stainless steel is susceptible to corrosion in certain environments and can be twice the price of FRP.
Drywall. Difficult to clean and requiring frequent repainting, drywall also has a relatively low impact strength compared to FRP. In addition, drywall has poor resistance to water and moisture and is therefore susceptible to mold and mildew.
Concrete block. Concrete block is porous and must therefore be sealed or painted often. It is difficult to clean and is not USDA-compliant.
Epoxy paint. Epoxy paint involves a labor intensive installation process and after installation it has high maintenance requirements. Epoxy paint is not impact or abrasion resistant and it is easily affected by moisture and chemicals.
Vinyl wall coverings.Vinyl wall coverings are expensive and difficult to install. They are not impact or abrasion resistant and tend to show imperfections below the surface.
