A new concept of material was brought from England to the United States and Canada in 1977: a product now known as Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum, also referred to as Fiberglass Reinforced Gypsum (FRG) and Glass Reinforced Gypsum (GRG). This included gypsum plaster reinforced with glass fibers to produce a thin,lightweight, yet strong material.
Before long, North American manufacturers began promoting and selling products produced with GFRG. By late 1978, GFRG jobs were being sold and installed in North America. In the early 1980’s, Stromberg developed many of the techniques and technology used in GFRG.
GFRG is primarily composed of two raw materials: high density alpha-based gypsum and glass fiber reinforcement. The gypsum plaster should be neutral or of low alkalinity to ensure its compatibility with “E” glass fibers. Additives commonly used within the plaster industry are acceptable provided they are used in accordance with the gypsum manufacturer’s recommendations.
