Material Selection and Characterization for a Novel Frame-Integrated Curtain Wall.

Area of Science:

• Building science and materials engineering
• Structural engineering and architectural design

Background:

• Conventional curtain walls in high-rise buildings feature deep frames due to simple glass-to-metal support, leading to space loss and visual disruption.
• The lack of composite action between glass and metal framing limits the performance and spatial efficiency of traditional curtain wall systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and evaluate an innovative frame-integrated unitized curtain wall system that reduces structural depth and enhances interior space.
• To investigate the feasibility of using glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite frames bonded to glass for a novel curtain wall construction.

Main Methods:

• Mechanical testing of GFRP pultrusions to determine material strength and elasticity.
• Testing of GFRP-glass connections to identify failure modes and assess strength.
• Development of a computer-based numerical model to simulate the structural performance of the composite unitized panel under wind loads.

Main Results:

• The novel GFRP-glass composite unitized curtain wall achieved a structural depth reduction of 80% compared to conventional systems.
• Numerical modeling confirmed that allowable deflections were within limits under realistic wind loads, validating the design's structural integrity.
• Analysis indicated potential need for reinforcement in GFRP areas near supports to mitigate shear stresses.

Conclusions:

• The proposed frame-integrated unitized curtain wall system offers a significant reduction in structural depth, enabling flush interior finishes and maximizing usable space.
• The use of GFRP composite frames bonded to glass presents a viable and high-performance alternative for modern high-rise building facades.
• Further investigation into reinforcing specific GFRP areas is recommended to optimize the system's performance under shear loads.