How is artificial rock made?
There are no definitive methods or standards for producing artificial rock. Manufacturers and artisans use very different raw materials and methods of manufacture. Resin based epoxies, petroleum derivatives of plastics such as polyurethane and polyester, and Glass-fibre Reinforced Concrete (GRC) are common practices. Other approaches include fibre reinforced plastic and urethane plastic castings using foam and elastomers. Shotcrete of cementitious mortars is common practice in the swimming pool trade due to the overlap of technology with modern freeform pool construction. The method of placement can also vary a great deal between suppliers. A significant amount of artificial rock is produced from precast moulds, tiles and panels that are then joined on site. Other methods include placed shotcrete or GRC over rebar armature, textile, or mesh structures with varying degrees of human and mechanical intervention to achieve desired textures and finishes.
