A1 Fibre reinforcement
Fibres and in particular glass fibre fabrics strengthen the A1 substantially. For structural A1 objects we do recommend to use glass fibre reinforced A1 (GFRA). Four layers of our A1 Triaxial Fibre laminated with A1 gives sufficient strength to even create Cladding & Façade elements with a thickness of 7 mm.
In this section we show you the most often used glass fabrics including guidelines how to use.
1.0 How do you process A1 Triaxial fibre?
A1, unlike polyester, does not absorb A1 Triaxial fibre but clamps it in between the different layers of A1. That’s why our glass fabric has an open structure that allows the different layers of A1 to connect to each other and to clamp in the A1 Triaxial fibre.
The best time to start laminating over the top layer is when it is drying but still feels slightly moist, immediately after the set time has expired.
The best result is achieved when the laminating layers are applied wet to wet. An advantage of A1 is that after a few days you can still apply A1 with A1 Triaxial fibre with a good adhesion. However, the substrate must first be coated with a wet layer of A1 before the A1 Triaxial fibre can be applied. Even with larger surfaces it can happen that the A1 already reacts (is hard) before a new layer of A1 Triaxial fibre can be applied. This can be solved by applying a new thin layer of A1 or by slowing down the reaction time of the A1 using A1 Retarder.
A1 glass Fibre fabrics
2.0 A1 Triaxial glass fibre 160 gr/m² .
A1 Triaxial glass fibre is used in combination with A1. In this way, A1 objects can be created or covered in moulds with A1. Triaxial glass fibre strengthens the A1 objects.
- A1 Triaxial glass fibre has an open structure and has been speciallydeveloped for A1.
- It is flexible and easy drapable, even over round shapes.
- Lightweight (160 gr/m²) yet very strong.
- After use of 4 layers in combination with A1 will result in strong objects.
3.0 A1 Quadraixial glass fibre 210 gr/m².
A1 Quadraixial glass fibre fibre is used in combination with A1 during the lamination process. It strengthens A1 objects.
A1 Quadraixial glass fibre:
- Has been developed specifically for A1.
- Is flexible, giving it good drapability on any shape, including round shapes.
- Is lightweight (210 gr), but still very strong.
4.0 C-veil 27 gr/m².
C-veil glass is a thin glass fleece that is mainly used as a (smooth) finishing layer. It contributes little to improving strength.
5.0 CSM 150 gr/m².
There are also good experiences with the use of CSM 150 gr/m² as this has a relatively open structure.
Make sure you use the Emulsion CSM.
6.0 Can we use natural fibres?
Natural fibres are offered as an alternative to glass fabrics. A major disadvantage of these fibres is the tendency to absorb and retain moisture, which disturbs the moisture balance in the A1. This moisture absorption can also cause fungi to develop and eventually affect the A1 object.
For outdoor applications, the use of natural fibres is therefore not recommended.
7.0 Is it possible to wetten the C-Veil A1 and to wind it over an object?
Yes, that is possible. After wetting the C-Veil with A1 you can place it over an object before it starts to harden. In this way you are using C-Veil more like a paper mache. Because the C-Veil is a thin fabric you need to handle carefully after you have wetted the C-Veil with A1.
8.0 Can A1 be used as a binding agent for paper mache, for example with a newspaper or toilet paper?
Yes, that is possible however toilet paper might not be strong enough to hold the A1. You can use the same working methods as with paper mache.
Do not place the paper mache outside or in a place with a high humidity as the paper covered by the A1 might absorb too much moisture.
9.0 Laminate A1 Triaxial glass fabric with sufficient A1.
Using our A1 Triaxial fabric is an excellent way to strengthen A1. Two or more layers of A1 Triaxial fabric laminated in the A1 creates strong A1 objects. Unlike materials such as polyester and epoxy, the A1 does not absorb the glass fabric but clamps it between 2 layers of A1. The A1 in this case acts like a sandwich with the fabric sandwiched. That is why it is important to use sufficient A1 between the different glass fabric layers. Working too ‘dry’ results in a less strong end result and gives a greater chance of delamination (release of the different layers), which we want to avoid. Also on the very first layer before the 1st layer of glass fabric is applied (more than) sufficient A1 should be used to create an adhesion between the first layer and the glass fabrics.
In addition, we advice to apply the different glass fabric layers (alternating with A1 layers) directly after each other. Work wet in wet to get an optimal bond between the different layers.
10.0 Wear gloves when working with C-Veil and A1 Glass fabrics.
As C-Veil is made of glass we strongly advise to use gloves when working with C-Veil. Although our A1 Glass fabric is much more friendly to work with, we suggest when working for a longer period with our Glass fabric and/or if you are sensitive to glass fabric to use gloves as well.
When cutting our C-Veil of Glass fabrics wearing a mask is advised.
11.0 Test values for mechanical properties.
For the determination of the mechanical performance of A1 composite laminate panels have been made by hand lay-up of glass fibre (Triaxial Fibre 300, 160 g/m²) with A1 mixture. The laminated panels have been made without a gelcoat-layer (non-reinforced resin layer) and without any other additives. Laminate panels were built up on a flat, smooth panel as a mould. All reinforcement layers have been stacked with the same orientation.
12.0 Makita multicutter.
If you have to cut a lot of our A1 Triaxial Fiber we suggest to use a Multicutter. We ourselves have good experience with this affordable Makita Multicutter.
