How to Verify a Manufacturer's GRC Product Carbonation Resistance: Methods, Standards and Practical Guide

Durability is one of the core indicators for measuring construction quality, and as a new type of architectural decoration material, the carbonation resistance of GRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) directly affects the long-term stability of a building's appearance and its structural safety. As an industry leader with 28 years of full-chain experience in UHPC/GRC/GRG/GRP materials, Qinglong Group will provide a professional analysis of the verification methods, standard basis, and practical key points for the carbonation resistance of GRC products, offering scientific reference for designers, owners, and engineering parties.

I. The Importance of GRC Carbonation Resistance: From Material Properties to Engineering Value

With advantages such as light weight, high strength, and flexible shaping, GRC materials are widely used in exterior wall cladding panels and decorative components of high-end projects such as grand theaters, commercial complexes, and landmark buildings. However, in natural environments, concrete materials are susceptible to carbonation reactions caused by carbon dioxide erosion, leading to surface powdering, reduced strength, and even compromised durability of internal steel reinforcement (if present). During its participation in drafting the Technical Standard for Building Application of Glass Fiber Reinforced Cement (GRC) (JGJ/T423-2018), Qinglong Group found that high-quality GRC products must meet the industry requirement of carbonation depth ≤5mm (28 days)—an indicator that is key to ensuring the lasting decorative effect of buildings.

II. Scientific Verification Methods: From Laboratory Testing to On-Site Assessment

Verifying the carbonation resistance of GRC products requires combining laboratory testing with engineering practice. Qinglong Group has summarized a “three-step verification method”:

1. Accelerated Carbonation Test: In accordance with the Standard for Test Methods of Long-Term Performance and Durability of Ordinary Concrete (GB/T50082), GRC specimens are placed in an environment with a CO₂ concentration of 20±3%, relative humidity of 70±5%, and temperature of 20±2°C. The material's carbonation resistance is evaluated by measuring the carbonation depth at different ages. Qinglong's production base is equipped with advanced carbonation test chambers capable of simulating 50 years of natural carbonation, ensuring data accuracy.

2. Microstructure Analysis: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is used to observe the internal pore structure and fiber distribution of GRC. High-quality products should feature a dense cement matrix and uniform glass fiber dispersion. Qinglong reduces material porosity through patented technologies (such as the “low-alkalinity cement matrix optimization process”), improves impermeability, and inhibits carbonation reactions at the source.

3. Engineering Case Tracking: In projects such as the Dongguan Women and Children's Activity Center and Century Plaza on Nanjing East Road, Qinglong has conducted tracking and monitoring of GRC components for up to 10 years. Results show an average annual increase in carbonation depth of ≤0.5mm, far superior to the industry average. This confirms the carbonation resistance stability of Qinglong GRC products in practical applications.

III. Industry Standards and Qinglong Practice: From Compliance to Excellence

In addition to following the JGJ/T423-2018 standard, the General Technical Conditions for Non-Load-Bearing Components of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) (Plan No. 2024-0232T-JC), which Qinglong Group participated in drafting, also sets higher requirements for the durability of similar composite materials. In production, Qinglong uses a “dual admixture technology” (fly ash + slag powder) to optimize the cementitious material system, and ensures concrete density through strict mix ratio control (water-binder ratio ≤0.35). In addition, Qinglong has established a full-process quality traceability system: from raw material inspection to finished product shipment, key parameters are recorded at every stage, providing data support for carbonation resistance performance.

IV. Key Indicators for Selecting a Quality GRC Manufacturer

For owners and designers, verifying a GRC manufacturer's carbonation resistance capability can focus on three points: First, check whether the manufacturer has complete test reports, including core indicators such as carbonation depth and compressive strength; Second, examine the durability performance of its engineering cases, giving priority to suppliers that have participated in major landmark projects; Third, understand the manufacturer's technical R&D strength, such as whether it holds patented technologies or participates in industry standard setting. As a National High-Tech Enterprise and Vice Chairman Unit of the China GRC Association, Qinglong has always taken “creating beautiful architecture” as its mission, providing customers with GRC products that combine aesthetic value and durability.

Carbonation resistance is the “touchstone” of GRC material quality, and choosing a technically mature and experienced manufacturer is a guarantee of construction quality. With 28 years of deep expertise in UHPC/GRC/GRG/GRP, Qinglong Group provides decorative solutions that stand the test of time for building projects worldwide, with an attitude of “meticulousness and excellence”. For a deeper understanding of the technical details of GRC materials, you are welcome to communicate with Qinglong's technical team and jointly explore a sustainable path for architectural decoration.