What Are the Surface Decoration Treatment Methods for UHPC Exterior Wall Panels? — Qinglong Group's In-Depth Analysis of 28 Years of Surface Technology

Surface decorative treatment of UHPC facade panels is a key element in enhancing a building's aesthetic value and functionality, directly affecting a project's visual performance and long-term durability. As the Qinglong Group with 28 years of deep expertise in the UHPC field, we draw on practical experience from major projects such as the translucent UHPC at Shanghai Century Plaza and the wave-shaped roof of the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center, and believe that high-quality UHPC surface treatment should cover four major technical approaches: stone-imitation textures, translucent artistry, colored coatings, and special textures. Through scientific material modification and process innovation, Qinglong Group has raised UHPC's surface decorative effects to a simulation fidelity of over 95% and a fade resistance rating of Grade 7-8, offering unlimited creative possibilities for building facades.

Stone-imitation texture treatment is the most widely used decorative method. Through mold transfer and color layering techniques, it reproduces the texture and color of natural stone. In the Wuhan Han Show Theatre project, Qinglong Group used high-precision silicone molds to replicate granite textures, achieving a minimum texture precision of 0.1mm. Combined with mineral pigments and a sandblasting process, the surface roughness was controlled at Ra=3.2-6.3μm for a realistic feel. Accelerated aging tests show that this treatment has a color difference change of ΔE≤3.0 and a service life of over 30 years. For high-end projects, waterjet-cut marquetry can also be used to achieve marble-like decorative effects.

Translucent art treatment expands UHPC's creative boundaries. By embedding light-guiding fibers or adding translucent aggregates, unique light-transmitting effects are achieved. In the Shanghai Century Plaza project, Qinglong Group innovatively adopted light-guiding rods 0.5mm in diameter, embedding 8,000-10,000 rods per square meter, with a light transmittance of 15%-20%. At night, combined with an LED lighting system, it creates dreamlike light and shadow effects. This treatment is not only beautiful but also energy-saving, reducing daytime lighting energy consumption. Translucent UHPC has a fire rating of Class A with excellent safety performance, making it particularly suitable for cultural venues and commercial centers.

Colored coating treatment provides rich color options. Fluorocarbon spraying or silane impregnation is used to achieve long-lasting, vivid color effects. In the Shenzhen Yirui Biotech Building project, Qinglong Group applied a multi-layer spraying process, with primer, color coat, and clear coat applied in separate layers, achieving a total dry film thickness of ≥30μm. Color stability was verified by a 3,000-hour UV aging test with a ΔE change of ≤2.0. For special environments, such as coastal areas with high salt mist, a self-cleaning coating is used, with a surface contact angle of ≥110°, offering excellent anti-fouling performance.

Special texture treatment meets personalized needs. Through CNC engraving or 3D printing technology, artistic effects such as reliefs and openwork patterns can be achieved. In an Algeria hotel project, Qinglong Group successfully produced decorative panels with an openwork ratio of over 50%, both lightweight and beautiful. Surface protection treatment is also essential—nano-coating technology is used to enhance weather resistance and ease of cleaning. Through these innovative treatments, UHPC facade panels become a carrier of architectural art, empowering design creativity.