Can GRC be used to manufacture beams or columns?
A. In theory GRC could be used to manufacture structural components but in practice it is not although there may be exceptions. The main reason is that once load bearing properties are required, the sections become uneconomic when compared to other commonly used structural materials such as steel reinforced concrete, pressed concrete or steel etc. There may be exceptions where the use of GRC can be competitive but these are rare and careful consideration must be given to the structural behavior of the elements concerned. When considering structural applications it is strongly recommended that expert guidance is sought.
