Forton MG® — Technical Overview

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Material Composition​

Forton MG® is a polymer-modified gypsum composite formulated for exterior, non-load-bearing architectural applications.

The base binder consists of a high-strength alpha gypsum cement, specifically Hydrocal® FGR-95, a dense, low-expansion gypsum engineered for fiber-reinforced composites. In its raw state, FGR-95 is hydrophilic, requiring polymer modification to achieve long-term moisture resistance suitable for exterior exposure.

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To modify the gypsum matrix, Forton MG incorporates a dry polymer resin system and proprietary hardener components, which chemically integrate with the gypsum during hydration. This polymer modification reduces capillary water absorption, increases matrix toughness, and improves long-term durability under cyclic wetting and drying conditions.

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Alkali-resistant glass fiber reinforcements are distributed throughout the matrix to provide tensile capacity, crack control, and impact resistance. Fiber reinforcement allows Forton MG to be cast as thin-shell panels while maintaining dimensional stability and structural integrity under service loads.

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To achieve water resistance and, where required, a near-waterproof surface condition, the system utilizes polymer additives such as Forton® VF-812. These additives further reduce porosity, enhance bond strength within the composite, and improve resistance to moisture ingress without relying on surface coatings alone.

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The resulting material is a non-cementitious, polymer-modified gypsum composite with a high strength-to-weight ratio, low porosity, and stable performance across a wide range of environmental conditions. Final surface performance may be further enhanced through sealers or coatings depending on project exposure requirements.

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Physical Properties

• Average weight: ~6 lbs/sf (30 kg/m²)

• Typical panel thickness: 3/8"–3/4"

• Non-cementitious, polymer-based matrix

• Low porosity / low water absorption

• Minimal expansion and contraction

• Durability & Environmental Performance

• Forton MG exhibits strong resistance to weathering, including:

• Freeze-thaw cycling

• Wet and humid environments

• High-sun exposure (UVA/UVB resistant)

• Its non-porous composition limits moisture ingress and reduces the risk of cracking, spalling, or surface degradation commonly associated with cement-based materials.

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Manufacturing does not require water-intensive curing or kiln firing like Terracotta. As a result, Forton MG has a significantly lower embodied carbon footprint compared to conventional cementitious cladding systems.

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Installation & Constructability

Due to its low weight, Forton MG panels are typically installed using:

• Light-gauge metal framing

• Hat channels

• Z-clips or similar mechanical attachment systems.

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This approach eliminates the need for heavy steel substructures commonly required for precast or GFRC façades and allows for faster handling, simpler coordination, and reduced labor requirements. Installation costs are typically 30–50% lower than GFRC or UHPC, depending on project conditions.

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Repairability & Maintenance

Forton MG is repairable in place. Localized damage can typically be patched and refinished without full panel replacement, reducing long-term maintenance cost and material waste over the life of the building. Once fully cured in place, Forton MG panels can even be cleaned by power washing.

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Applications

• Exterior façades and rainscreens

• Decorative cladding panels

• Molded architectural elements

• Non-load-bearing envelope components                             

Forton MG is not a structural material and is intended to support only its own weight.

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Material Selection​

While Zoho Stone’s portfolio includes legacy projects executed in traditional precast and GFRC systems, Forton MG represents the primary material recommended today for architectural cladding applications where weight reduction, constructability, durability, and environmental impact are critical considerations.