What Are the Reinforcement Measures for Hollow GRC Shapes?

While pursuing ultimate openness and artistry, openwork GRC forms also face the challenge of reduced structural stiffness and strength due to the extensive removal of material. To ensure safety, systematic reinforcement measures must be taken. Based on the openwork ratio, panel size, and loading conditions, Qinglong Group comprehensively applies strategies such as "optimized form design, properly arranged stiffening ribs, use of high-performance materials, and precise placement of embedded parts", and has successfully completed numerous GRC projects with high openwork ratios.

Topological optimization in form design is the fundamental approach to achieving structural efficiency. During the conceptual design stage, parametric design and structural form-finding techniques are used to make the "ribs" (i.e., the retained portions) of the openwork pattern naturally follow the principal stress trajectories, thereby achieving maximum structural effectiveness with minimal material. Avoiding sharp interior angles in critical load-bearing areas and adopting smooth transition curves can effectively reduce stress concentration. This is the most efficient "reinforcement" measure.

Properly arranging stiffening ribs is a key means of improving stiffness and stability. For components with large panel sizes or high openwork ratios (e.g., >40%), stiffening ribs must be provided on the back. The rib layout should be determined through structural calculations, typically along the span direction or in stress concentration areas. The cross-sectional dimensions and height of the ribs should be determined according to the loads, and reliable connection with the panel must be ensured to form T-shaped or L-shaped sections that work together. For particularly slender openwork areas, locally increasing the thickness or embedding short fibers can be used for reinforcement.

Using high-strength materials is the foundation for enhanced performance. For openwork forms, Qinglong adopts GRC mixes with higher strength grades, such as using sulphoaluminate cement or adding silica fume, to improve matrix strength and density. At the same time, the dosage and uniform distribution of alkali-resistant glass fibers must be ensured, as these are key to providing tensile strength and toughness. Where necessary, fine steel bars or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars can be embedded in ribs or edges to further improve crack resistance and load-bearing capacity. All reinforcement measures must be considered in coordination with installation connections to ensure effective load transfer.