Aquatic Leisure Technologies (ALT) recently launched a graphene-reinforced glass fiber reinforced composite (GFRP) swimming pool. The company said that the graphene nanotechnology swimming pool obtained by using graphene modified resin combined with traditional GFRP manufacturing is lighter, stronger, and more durable than traditional GFRP pools.
In 2018, ALT approached the project partner and the Western Australian company First Graphene (FG), which is a supplier of high-performance graphene products. After more than 40 years of manufacturing GFRP swimming pools, ALT has been looking for better moisture absorption solutions. Although the inside of the GFRP pool is protected by a double layer of gel coat, the outside is easily affected by moisture from the surrounding soil.
Neil Armstrong, Commercial Manager of First Graphene Composites, said: GFRP systems are easy to absorb water because they contain reactive groups that can react with the absorbed water through hydrolysis, causing water to enter the matrix, and permeation blisters may occur. Manufacturers use various strategies to reduce water penetration outside GFRP pools, such as adding a vinyl ester barrier to the laminate structure. However, ALT wanted a stronger option and increased bending strength to help its pool maintain its shape and withstand the pressure from the backfill and the hydrostatic pressure or hydrodynamic load.
Post time: Sep-07-2021