ARG Chopped Strands

Product Overview

Alkali-Resistant Glass (ARG) Chopped Strands are high-performance reinforcement fibres specifically designed for Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete (GRC) and cementitious composite applications. These short, discontinuous strands are made from zirconia-rich E-CR glass with a zirconia content typically ≥16%, which is essential for long-term durability in alkaline environments such as concrete.

When mixed into GRC or mortar, the chopped strands form a three-dimensional reinforcement network that significantly improves tensile strength, crack resistance, and impact durability, while reducing shrinkage and preventing brittle failure in concrete components.

Key Benefits

• Superior Alkali Resistance
  The high zirconia content (≥16%) ensures excellent durability and resistance to the alkaline attack commonly found in Portland cement-based systems.

• Improved Crack Control
  Helps reduce micro-cracking during curing and after installation, significantly increasing the lifespan and structural integrity of concrete products.

• Enhanced Mechanical Performance
  Boosts flexural, tensile, and impact strength in GRC applications — ideal for both thin-walled and decorative elements.

• Uniform Dispersion
  Engineered with sizing compatible with cement matrices, allowing even dispersion and excellent bonding within the concrete mix.

• Corrosion-Free Alternative to Steel
  Unlike traditional steel mesh or rebar, ARG strands do not corrode, making them ideal for outdoor, marine, and high-humidity environments.
  
  

 Specifications & Options

• Available Fibre Lengths:

  • 6 mm (standard for premix GRC)

  • 12 mm (used in sprayed GRC or where higher tensile strength is needed)

  • 18 mm (for thick sections or precast applications)

• Zirconia Content: ≥16% (ASTM C1666 compliant)

• Fibre Diameter: Typically 13–20 microns

• Moisture Content: ≤0.5%

• Packaging:

  • Supplied in moisture-resistant bags

  • Available in 20 kg or 25 kg bags; palletized for bulk supply

  • Water-dispersible types available on request
    
    

Resin & Matrix Compatibility

• Optimized for use in cement, gypsum, and lime-based systems

• Compatible with GRC formulations, precast concrete, mortar, and rendering

• Not intended for use in resin-based composites (use glass rovings or chopped strands for thermosets instead)
  
  

Typical Applications

• GRC panels and architectural cladding

• Decorative pre-cast elements (e.g., cornices, planters, façade panels)

• Thin-walled concrete components (e.g., ducts, pipes, vaults)

• Cement mortars for surface repairs and patching

• Anti-crack fibre reinforcement in floor screeds and tile adhesives
  
  

Sustainability & Compliance

• Non-toxic, non-corrosive, and recyclable

• Meets ASTM C1666/C1666M and EN 15422 standards for alkali-resistant glass fibres

• Promotes longer-lasting concrete components with reduced maintenance and environmental degradation