Brazilian company Planefibra has launched Planemax, an opaque roofing panel made from glass fibre reinforced polymer composite (GRP).The product has been developed for environments where corrosion significantly reduces the lifespan of traditional materials, such as chemical plants, port warehouses and industrial fertiliser sites.
According to Planefibra, the material could replace metal or fibre cement roofing, which is often weakened by moisture and corrosive agents. Corrosion represents a significant cost worldwide. According to the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), economic losses related to corrosion are equivalent to 3.4% of global GDP, or approximately $2.5 trillion per year.
In this context, composite materials are attracting growing interest as a replacement solution for structures exposed to chemical, saline or humid environments.
The manufacturer claims a minimum lifespan of ten years with ‘virtually zero’ maintenance. By comparison, metal roofs exposed to corrosion rarely last more than five years in harsh environments, while fibre cement absorbs water, which can lead to leaks and structural overload.
Weighing approximately 3.4 kg/m², compared to up to 17 kg/m² for some fibre cement sheets, the panel could generate savings of up to 70% over a ten-year cycle. The product is fully customisable in terms of colour and finish.
Founded in 2007 in São Bento do Sul, Brazil, Planefibra specialises in the manufacture of continuously laminated composite panels for industrial, commercial and residential construction. The company, led by Cyrus Muchalski, is ISO 900 certified. It also markets translucent roofing products, fire-resistant panels and laminates for refrigerated vehicle bodies. Its solutions are distributed mainly in Brazil and several South American countries.
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