SUBSTRATE PROFILE

ShapeShell™-RC (Reinforced Concrete)

Fibre Reinforced Solutions

ShapeShell is a vertically integrated Design, Engineering and Manufacturing business that combines modern structural fibre-reinforced materials with advanced manufacturing methods to deliver specifically designed products for the Architectural/Construction Industry. 

ShapeShell™ combines the latest aerospace-grade materials with precision manufacturing techniques and is renowned for its exceptional structural integrity, performance, durability, and affordability.

ShapeShell’s next-generation solutions outperform conventional materials across all key areas while meeting global testing certifications, ISO 9001 design and manufacturing standards, and offering up to a 50-year warranty.

We are committed to providing high-quality materials that stand up to the toughest conditions while maintaining a great look. Whether you need a standard profile or a custom design, our process is straightforward, ensuring quick turnarounds and minimal hassle from concept to installation.

From choosing the right materials to the final fit-out, we are here to support you every step of the way, with hands-on guidance and practical expertise. ShapeShell™ products are crafted with the latest technology and high-grade materials, giving you a reliable, high-performing solution that’s easy to work with on-site. ShapeShell™ by ShapeShift Technologies is here to help you get the results you need, keeping your projects on time and on budget.

ShapeShell™-RC (Reinforced Concrete)

Next Generation : GFRC, GRC, Glass Reinforced Concrete

What is ShapeShell™-RC?

ShapeShell™-RC in the next reinforced concrete, specifically designed for heavy-duty architectural applications, where fire safety and durability are critical. This substrate is classified as non-combustible under the AS 1530.1 standard, making it highly suitable for projects that demand stringent fire resistance. In addition to its safety features, ShapeShell™-RC offers a range of protective coatings, including advanced fluoropolymer and gel coat finishes, which enhance both durability and aesthetic appeal.

Product Composition 

ShapeShell™-RC essentially consists of the cement or calcium silicate formed by a chemical reaction of siliceous and calcareous material, reinforced by fibres. Those are: 

  • Portland white cement 
  • Reinforcing fibres 
  • Fine aggregate 
  • Mineral pigment and paint 
  • Functional additive 
  • Selected material filler proving extra smooth surface 

Production Method 

GRC or GFRG is batched and blended in accordance with industry standards using the specified mix design. Its mixture is sprayed and laid into moulds designed to match the shape and dimensions shown on the approved shop drawings. Where the thickness of the GRC 15-25 mm.

Product Appearance 

GRC or GFRG is a through coloured fibre cement panel with no coating. The product surface of the sheet is characterised by a textured surface. The board receives a hydrophobation which prevent moisture ingress into the core of the panel.  

Key Advantages

  • Advanced fibres in a cementitious matrix.
  • 50% stiffer than standard GFRC
  • Modern fibres in a geopolymer matrix.
  • 100% lighter than precast concrete panels.
  • Commingled nano raw-material additives and fibres.

Key Characteristics of GRC

Composition:

Both GFRC and GRC are made from a mixture of hydraulic cement, fine aggregates, water, and alkali-resistant glass fibres. The glass fibres serve to reinforce the concrete matrix, improving its tensile strength and resistance to cracking

Applications:

This material is widely used in architectural applications due to its lightweight nature and versatility. They can be molded into intricate shapes, making them ideal for decorative elements, facades, and structural components

Differentiations

Composition

GRC is made from a mixture of hydraulic cement, fine aggregates, water, and alkali-resistant glass fibres. The fibres enhance tensile strength and reduce cracking.

ShapeShell™-RC consists of Portland white cement or calcium silicate, reinforced with fibres. It also includes fine aggregates, oxide pigments, and functional additives for improved performance and aesthetics. 

Manufacturing Process

GRC is typically produced by spraying or laying the mixture into molds designed to specific dimensions, with a thickness ranging from 15 to 25 mm.

ShapeShell™-RC utilizes advanced manufacturing techniques such as spraying to ensure uniform consistency and performance. This method optimizes resin flow during production, enhancing the material’s properties.

Performance Characteristics

GRC offers good durability and fire resistance but may not meet the highest standards for non-combustibility.

ShapeShell™-RC is classified as non-combustible under AS 1530.1 standards, making it suitable for heavy-duty architectural applications where fire safety is critical. It boasts a 50% increase in stiffness compared to standard GFRC, making it significantly more robust.

Feature
GRC
ShapeShell™-RC
Material Composition
Cement, sand, alkali-resistant glass fibres
Reinforced concrete with advanced fibres
Weight
Lightweight (but heavier than ShapeShell-RC)
Extremely lightweight for its strength
Flexibility
Moderate
High (suitable for free-form designs)
Production
Traditional casting or spraying
Casting or spraying
Applications
Decorative panels, cladding
Complex geometries, large panels, free-form structures
Durability
Durable but less impact-resistant
Superior durability and impact resistance

Conclusion

In summary, while both GRC and ShapeShell™-RC are reinforced concrete materials that utilize fibres for building strength enhancement, ShapeShell™-RC pushes the boundaries of architectural possibilities with its superior durability, impact resistance, and adaptability to complex geometries suited for demanding architectural applications.

Advanced Manufacturing

ShapeShell uses digital manufacturing methods to remove cost and allow investment into high-end materials, and their processes and scale allow access to this technology and quality at a competitive price. 

Sustainability

ShapeShellrepresents the leading edge in a consolidated response to sustainability, where 3D Design & Engineering, Advanced Materials, and Digital Manufacturing methods result in Efficiency and sustainability

Widespread Application

ShapeShellserves markets such as Architectural Internal & External, Public Artwork, Civil Infrastructure, Moulds/Tools, and Formwork Markets collaborate with architects, builders, and installers

Our Factory

Batam Factory Facility

Overview

The advanced manufacturing facility of ShapeShell™ is in Batam, Indonesia, near Singapore’s major shipping hub. The facility has an area of 20,000 m2 with 8,000 m2 under roof. The facility has an average of 50,000 m2 of material throughput per year, or 4,200 m2/month.

ShapeShell™ emerges from the synergy between architects, builders, and installers, providing bespoke solutions that push the boundaries of modern construction. ShapeShell™ offers unique solutions for the construction industry, using advanced materials and collaborating with architects, builders, and installers.

The methodology used by ShapeShift Technologies is significant and environmentally and commercially beneficial because it allows for the use of advanced materials, efficient manufacturing processes, and collaboration with architects, builders, and installers.

The manufacturing process used by ShapeShift Technologies is performed under vacuum, which results in consistent mechanical properties for each part. Additionally, the company has multiple easily accessible fabrication facilities in Asia, is scalable, and works under a detailed quality management system accredited to ISO 9001. All these factors contribute to the environmental and commercial benefits of the methodology used by ShapeShift Technologies.

The Manufacturing Technique

  • Fibre Type Selection: The specific fibres used in ShapeShell™ are chosen based on the project’s structural and design requirements. Fibres may be selected for their strength, flexibility, or other unique properties that contribute to the material’s overall performance in its intended application.
  • Weave Pattern Customisation: The fibres are woven into specific patterns, which are determined based on how the final product needs to respond to physical stresses. Different weaving patterns can enhance tensile strength, flexibility, or rigidity, providing tailored performance of the material.
  • Custom Manufacturing Processes: The manufacturing process for ShapeShell™ is adapted for each project. Techniques may include specialised moulding, pressing, or curing processes that align with the desired shape and performance of the final product.
  • Resin System Formulation: The resin system is a critical component, acting as the binder for the fibres. The choice of resin influences the product’s environmental resistance, durability, and longevity. The resin system used in ShapeShell™ is selected to meet stringent international and Australian standards for fire retardancy and other critical properties.
  • Optimized Resin-to-Fibre Ratio: The ratio of resin to fibre is meticulously calculated to balance the material’s weight, strength, and flexibility. This optimisation is crucial for ensuring that ShapeShell™ delivers a high-performance, lightweight solution to installed without heavy machinery.