A1 Fibre reinforcement
Fibres, and glass fibre fabrics in particular, strengthen A1 substantially. For structural A1 objects, we recommend using glass fibre reinforced A1 (GFRA). Four layers of our A1 Triaxial Fibre laminated with A1 give enough strength to create even cladding and façade elements just 7 mm thick.
In this section, we show you the most commonly used glass fabrics, including guidelines on how to use them.
1.0 How do you process A1 Triaxial fibre?
Unlike polyester, A1 does not absorb A1 Triaxial Fibre. Instead, it clamps the fibre between the layers of A1. That’s why our glass fabric has an open structure that allows the layers of A1 to bond with each other and hold the A1 Triaxial Fibre in place.
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-on-wet. An advantage of A1 is that even after a few days, you can still apply A1 and A1 Triaxial Fibre with good adhesion. However, the substrate must first be coated with a wet layer of A1 before the A1 Triaxial Fibre can be applied. On larger surfaces, the A1 may already have reacted (hardened) 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 of the A1 with A1 Retarder.
A1 glass Fibre fabrics
2.0 A1 Triaxial Fibre 160 g/m²
A1 Triaxial Fibre is used in combination with A1. This way, A1 objects can be created or covered in moulds, and the fibre strengthens them.
- A1 Triaxial Fibre has an open structure and has been specially developed for A1.
- It is flexible and easy to drape, even over round shapes.
- Lightweight (160 g/m²) yet very strong.
- Four layers combined with A1 result in strong objects.
3.0 A1 Quadriaxial Fibre 210 g/m²
A1 Quadriaxial Fibre is used in combination with A1 during the lamination process. It strengthens A1 objects.
A1 Quadriaxial Fibre:
- Has been developed specifically for A1.
- Is flexible and drapes well over any shape, including round ones.
- Is lightweight (210 g/m²) yet very strong.
4.0 C-Veil 27 g/m²
C-Veil is a thin glass fleece, mainly used as a smooth finishing layer. It adds little to the strength.
5.0 CSM 150 g/m²
CSM 150 g/m² also works well, as it has a relatively open structure.
Make sure you use emulsion-bound 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 their tendency to absorb and retain moisture, which disturbs the moisture balance in the A1. This can also lead to fungal growth, which may eventually damage the A1 object.
For outdoor applications, the use of natural fibres is therefore not recommended.
7.0 Can C-Veil be wetted with A1 and wrapped around 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. This way, you use C-Veil much like papier-mâché. Because C-Veil is a thin fabric, handle it carefully once it has been wetted with A1.
8.0 Can A1 be used as a binding agent for papier-mâché, for example with newspaper or toilet paper?
Yes, that is possible. However, toilet paper may not be strong enough to hold the A1. You can use the same techniques as with regular papier-mâché.
Do not place papier-mâché objects outdoors or in humid areas, as the paper under the A1 may absorb too much moisture.
9.0 Laminate A1 Triaxial Fibre with sufficient A1
Using our A1 Triaxial Fibre is an excellent way to strengthen A1. Two or more layers of A1 Triaxial Fibre laminated in A1 create strong A1 objects. Unlike materials such as polyester and epoxy, A1 does not absorb the glass fabric but clamps it between two layers of A1. In this case, the A1 forms a sandwich with the fabric in between. That is why it is important to use sufficient A1 between the different glass fabric layers. Working too ‘dry’ gives a weaker result and increases the risk of delamination (layers separating), which should be avoided. Use more than enough A1 on the very first layer, before the first glass fabric layer goes on, so the two bond properly.
We also advise applying the glass fabric layers (alternating with A1 layers) one directly after the other. Work wet-on-wet for the best bond between the layers.
10.0 Wear gloves when working with C-Veil and A1 glass fabrics
As C-Veil is made of glass, we strongly advise wearing gloves when working with it. Although our A1 glass fabric is much gentler to work with, we suggest wearing gloves as well if you work with it for long periods or are sensitive to glass fibre.
We advise wearing a mask when cutting C-Veil or glass fabrics.
11.0 Test values for mechanical properties
To determine the mechanical performance of A1 composites, laminate panels were made by hand lay-up of glass fibre (Triaxial Fibre 300, 160 g/m²) with A1 mixture. The panels were made without a gelcoat layer (non-reinforced resin layer) and without any other additives. They were built up on a flat, smooth panel used as a mould. All reinforcement layers were stacked in the same orientation.
12.0 Makita multicutter.
If you need to cut a lot of our A1 Triaxial Fibre, we suggest using a multicutter. We have had good results with this affordable Makita multicutter.
