SpiderLath

Zirconium is the chemical compound that is used in AR-glass fibers to make them suitable for reinforcing cement and concrete products. Zirconium is added during the melting of the glass before the fibers are extruded. Therefore, it is an integral part of the composite, NOT an applied coating.

The optimum amount of Zirconium has been found to be in the range of 12%-20%. Here is a typical range for the chemical composition of AR-glass fibers:

The above reflects the fact that the Zirconium is an integral ingredient in the fiber and, as such, protects the glass component from alkali attack. Spiderlath being made from AR fiberglass will not corrode as  AR fiberglass will not corrode. The expected lifetime of  any given product varies. In the case of AR fiberglass it has been determined to not show sufficient degradation after 30 years in cementitious material. We think E Glass and metal lath have about the same degregation which is sometime around 8 years, depending on moisture exposure. There are many products on the market that use AR fiberglass using the ZrO2 method. One product is made by Quickcrete and is their fiber mortar. GFRC’s have been used in bridges, skyscrapers and any number of architectural castings effectively since the 1970’s.