Is GRC Durable? — Long-Term Performance Verification and Aging Resistance Mechanism Analysis

The durability of GRC material is a key indicator for evaluating its long-term service value, directly affecting a building's maintenance costs and life cycle. Based on 28 years of project tracking data and accelerated aging tests, Qinglong Group concludes that high-quality GRC can achieve a service life of over 50 years in standard environments, and can maintain stable performance for more than 30 years even in coastal areas with high salt spray. This outstanding durability stems from the material's inherent weather resistance and scientific protective design, making GRC a building material choice that stands the test of time.

Alkali-resistant glass fiber is the fundamental guarantee of durability. Qinglong Group uses AR-Glass fiber with a zirconium content of over 16%, whose alkali resistance is more than 10 times higher than that of ordinary fibers. Accelerated aging tests show that after 3,000 hours of damp-heat cycling, the fiber strength retention rate remains above 85%. In the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center project, after 5 years of exposure to the coastal high salt spray environment, no signs of fiber erosion appeared on the surface of the GRC panels, demonstrating its outstanding corrosion resistance.

Optimized cement matrix enhances anti-aging capability. By incorporating active admixtures such as silica fume, the Ca(OH)₂ content is reduced and carbonation depth is decreased. Qinglong Group's test data shows that the annual carbonation depth of high-quality GRC is less than 0.1mm, and the 50-year carbonation depth does not exceed the thickness of the protective layer. In the Wuhan Han Show Theater project, GRC components after 5 years of use were tested and showed a carbonation depth of only 0.3mm, far below the design allowable value.

Surface treatment technology improves environmental adaptability. Specialized protective coatings are selected according to the service environment, such as fluorocarbon coatings and silane impregnation. In its coastal area projects, Qinglong Group adopted a dual protection system, reducing the chloride ion diffusion coefficient of GRC to below 1.5×10⁻¹²m²/s. A regular maintenance regime ensures the protective effect remains effective over time, significantly extending the material's service life.