PolyFiberCrete is a lightweight synthetic concrete-sandstone textured material molded into solid play structures and site furnishings. Using a patented process of cellular concrete, polymer additives, molds, sand, air bubbles, and sandblasting, UPC Parks makes grip-textured climbing rocks and walls, caves, ledges, benches, planters, and playground sculptures.1 PolyFiberCrete retains the strength and value of concrete while offering an exceptional climbing grip texture.
Created in 2008 by Paul D'Amico of Universal Precast in Redding, California,2 PolyFiberCrete (PFC) is an alternative medium to glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) and fiberglass. The major advantages of PFC products are that they result in solid, heavy structures that are of uniform composition and color throughout. Since structures are made from single molds there are very few seams to cause maintenance problems.3 Impact damage and surface cracks can be repaired, smoothed, and cleaned as part of routine maintenance.4 The heavier weight of PolyFiberCrete also makes the play structures more resistant to natural disasters such as hurricanes.5
Due to the air bubbles created during molding, PFC's sandstone-like texture is graspable without being abrasive. To maintain this texture an acrylic sealer that creates a graffiti resistant surface is utilized instead of an anti-graffiti coating.6
PFC products are utilized by UPC Parks and Playworld Systems in their playground lines where the single mold process has allowed flexibility in creating play structures and climbing challenges.7
- 1. “Patent application title: Composition and Method of Using the Same to Make a Simulated Rock Climbing Wall.” Patentdocs. < http://www.faqs.org/patents/app/20080246179 > 25 April 2013.
- 2. Courtney, Paul. “PolyFiberCrete.” Personal Correspondence to Playground Professionals. 17 April 2013.
- 3. “Comparative Analysis of PFC & GFRC.” Rocks & Ropes Adventure Playgrounds. < http://www.jplarue.com/resources/polyfibercrete%20vs%20gfrc.pdf > 25 April 2013.
- 4. “Comparative Analysis of PFC & GFRC.” Rocks & Ropes Adventure Playgrounds. < http://www.jplarue.com/resources/polyfibercrete%20vs%20gfrc.pdf > 25 April 2013.
- 5. Op. cit., Courtney.
- 6. Op.cit., “Support.”
- 7. Op. cit., Courtney.
