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:
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
Glass reinforced concrete (GRC, also called GFRC) is the material architects reach for when a facade needs the look and permanence of concrete without the weight. ShapeShell-RC is ShapeShift Technologies’ next-generation GRC: alkali-resistant fibres in a refined cementitious matrix with nano-scale additives, designed and manufactured under one roof from shop drawings to delivery.
Facade and cladding panels, screens and fins, soffits, column covers, heritage reproduction profiles, civil infrastructure elements and public artwork. Because the mix is sprayed or laid into CNC-machined moulds, complex curvature and free-form geometry cost far less than they would in precast.
If you’re looking to specify just a standard flat RC panel, learn more here.
ShapeShift Technologies is a vertically integrated design, engineering and manufacturing business. Panels are produced under an ISO 9001 accredited quality system at our 20,000 sqm facility near Singapore’s shipping hub, with engineering and project management run from Australia. We are a full member of the GRCA and back ShapeShell with a warranty of up to 50 years. Over 350 projects delivered across 18 countries with partners including Lendlease, John Holland, Grimshaw and Arup.
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Feature
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GRC
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ShapeShell™-RC
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Material Composition
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Cement, sand, alkali-resistant glass fibres
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Reinforced concrete with advanced fibres
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Weight
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Lightweight (but heavier than ShapeShell-RC)
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Extremely lightweight for its strength
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Flexibility
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Moderate
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High (suitable for free-form designs)
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Production
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Traditional casting or spraying
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Casting or spraying
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Applications
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Decorative panels, cladding
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Complex geometries, large panels, free-form structures
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Durability
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Durable but less impact-resistant
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Superior durability and impact resistance
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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.
Nothing material. GRC (glass reinforced concrete) is the British and Australian term, GFRC the American. Both describe concrete reinforced with alkali-resistant glass fibres in place of steel.
ShapeShell™-RC is classified non-combustible under AS 1530.1. Always confirm the specific product certificate for your compliance pathway; not all GRC on the market carries the classification.
Typically 15 to 25 mm for ShapeShell™-RC, which is what makes the weight saving over precast possible.
Yes. Spray application into CNC-machined moulds is the standard production method for complex geometry, and it is where GRC has the clearest cost advantage over precast.
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.
ShapeShell™ represents the leading edge in a consolidated response to sustainability, where 3D Design & Engineering, Advanced Materials, and Digital Manufacturing methods result in Efficiency and sustainability
ShapeShell™ serves markets such as Architectural Internal & External, Public Artwork, Civil Infrastructure, Moulds/Tools, and Formwork Markets collaborate with architects, builders, and installers
