Solution Strategies and Technical Analysis for Thermal Stress Issues in Large-Area GRC Curtain Walls

Solving the Thermal Stress Challenge of Large-Area GRC Curtain Walls: A Full-Chain Solution from Design to Operation and Maintenance

Thermal stress is the 'invisible killer' of large-area GRC curtain walls: at best, it causes cracking and deformation of components and damages the building's appearance; at worst, it threatens structural safety. Only a full-chain technical approach covering design, production, construction, and maintenance can build a lasting 'line of defense for both aesthetics and safety' for a building.

As a full-chain service provider with 28 years of deep expertise in UHPC/GRC/GRG/GRP, Guangdong Qinglong Construction Engineering Co., Ltd. draws on the professional experience gained from participating in the drafting of the Technical Standard for Building Applications of Glass Fiber Reinforced Cement (GRC) to address the thermal stress pain points of large-area GRC curtain walls, and has developed a systematic solution ranging from prevention at the source to dynamic operation and maintenance.

### Upfront Design Optimization: Reducing the Impact of Thermal Stress on GRC Curtain Walls at the Source

The key to controlling thermal stress in large-area GRC curtain walls lies in 'proactive avoidance' at the design stage. Leveraging BIM parametric design capabilities and incorporating data such as the annual temperature range and sunshine duration of the project region, the Qinglong team precisely plans the joint dimensions and spacing of GRC components, releasing thermal deformation stress through elastic connection joint design. At the same time, fiber content and cement matrix mix proportions are optimized to give components stronger resistance to stress-induced deformation. This design logic has been validated in multiple landmark GRC curtain wall projects in China, effectively reducing later-stage cracking risk by more than 60%.

### Precision Production Control: Enhancing the Material Toughness of GRC Components Against Thermal Stress

The production precision of components directly determines the controllability of thermal stress. At its production base in Nanning, Guangxi, Qinglong adopts a standardized steam curing process to ensure a thorough hydration reaction within GRC components, reducing internal stress caused by material inhomogeneity. Backed by an annual capacity of 600,000 square meters and a strict quality control system, every step—from high-modulus basalt fiber selection to finished-product flexural strength testing—meets the industry's highest standards. Supported by 58 patented technologies, Qinglong's GRC components achieve flexural strength above 20MPa, with thermal deformation resistance far exceeding that of conventional products.

### Scientific Construction and Installation: Weakening the Transmission of Thermal Stress Within the GRC Curtain Wall System

On-site construction is the key implementation stage for thermal stress control. Qinglong's professional construction team uses 3D laser scanning positioning technology to control GRC component installation accuracy to the millimeter level, avoiding additional stress caused by installation errors. Weather-resistant elastic sealants are selected to achieve flexible connections between components, effectively buffering displacement caused by temperature changes. In cooperation projects with property developers such as Poly and China Overseas, Qinglong's construction solutions ensure the seamless aesthetic appearance of large-area GRC curtain walls while blocking the transmission path of thermal stress at the installation level.

### Long-Term After-Sales Maintenance: Dynamically Monitoring Thermal Stress Changes in GRC Curtain Walls

Thermal stress in large-area GRC curtain walls changes dynamically, making long-term maintenance indispensable. Qinglong has established a comprehensive after-sales system, assigning a dedicated maintenance archive to each project and using regular on-site inspection and stress monitoring to promptly identify and address potential stress concentration points. As a member of the International Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete Association, Qinglong's maintenance services cover the whole of China and overseas markets, providing long-term thermal stress control support for multiple overseas projects in Malaysia, Australia, and elsewhere, ensuring the durability and safety of building exteriors.

From proactive prevention at the design source, to precise implementation in production and construction, and dynamic operation and maintenance after sales, Qinglong leverages its full-chain technical strength to deliver practical, expert-level solutions to the thermal stress problem of large-area GRC curtain walls. As a leading brand in China's GRC field, Qinglong remains committed to its mission of 'creating beautiful architecture,' joining hands with clients to build high-quality buildings that combine aesthetic appeal with durability.