How Is the Texture of Biomimetic GRC Forms Achieved?

The realization of texture in biomimetic GRC forms is a creative process of translating organic forms found in nature (such as wood grain, stone pores, and plant veins) onto building skins through material craftsmanship. Its technical core lies in the combination of three elements: high-fidelity mold replication, multi-level texture shaping, and artistic surface treatment. In achieving effects such as the simulated stone finish of the Third Front Construction Museum in Panzhihua, Sichuan, and the “Dongguan sedge weaving” effect at the Dongguan Women and Children’s Activity Center, Qinglong Group has developed a complete texture realization process system spanning from digital scanning to hand refinement.

The first step in achieving highly realistic textures is to acquire high-quality original texture data. For imitating specific natural materials (such as certain types of granite or wood), Qinglong employs high-precision 3D laser scanners to capture surface point cloud data, which is then processed with reverse engineering software to generate digital models suitable for CNC engraving. For organic forms such as weaves and plants, parametric design software (such as Grasshopper) is often used to generate algorithmic textures, whose advantages lie in controllability, adjustability, and freedom from copyright disputes.

Mold making is the key to texture replication. Different mold techniques are selected according to the depth and fineness of the texture. For rugged rubble stone or wood textures, silicone molds can be cast from natural objects and then reproduced as GRP working molds, preserving natural details to the greatest extent. For fine, regular geometric textures or reliefs, a five-axis CNC machine is used to directly carve negative molds from tooling board or high-density foam. Qinglong’s CNC machining accuracy reaches 0.1mm, capable of perfectly reproducing subtle texture variations.

The GRC spraying process and surface treatment ensure the final presentation of the texture. Using the direct spraying method, the fiber cement slurry fully fills every corner of the mold texture. After demolding, a series of surface treatments are carried out according to the design intent: acid washing exposes the aggregate to create a natural feel; sandblasting produces a uniform matte finish; water washing shapes flow-mark textures; and hand chiseling adds natural irregularity. Finally, through the application of stone-effect paint, penetrating colorants, or protective agents, a remarkably lifelike biomimetic artistic effect is achieved. Qinglong has a professional painting workshop and a team of highly skilled technicians, capable of meeting demands for various biomimetic effects, from simulated stone and wood to simulated metal.