A new solution for ventilated facade panels

Patent Description

A lightweight, resistant, adaptable, and durable panel. With a surface that allows for multiple finishes (scratched, grooved, polished, colorable, etc.). Its lightness allows for large-format elements without complex structures. The outer layer allows for various functionalities such as self-cleaning and CO₂ absorption. Companies interested in commercially exploiting the technology or establishing R&D collaboration agreements for its development are sought.

The Challenge

The construction sector in Europe achieves a total energy consumption of 40% and is responsible for 36% of community greenhouse gas emissions. That is why the constructive solutions of building envelopes are evolving towards so-called "ventilated facades", the main advantage of which lies in the continuity of the thermal and waterproof envelopes, avoiding energy losses and improving the habitability of buildings. To build a ventilated facade, it is necessary to assemble a support structure that will be as simple as possible the greater the resistance, deformation capacity, and lightness offered by the coating. In addition, sustainable and environmentally friendly construction materials already represent a great added value.

The Technology

The material consists of a lamination of layers of cement paste and non-woven plant fiber, with two outer layers of mineral finish, subjected to vacuum and strongly compressed. The outer layers admit a multitude of finishes, such as color, scratching, matte, polishing,... including functional finishes. The result is a plate of between 8 and 12 mm thick, depending on the number of layers, which due to its resistance, deformability, and lightness can be presented in large format, which allows reducing the complexity of the support structure and increasing productivity in assembly.

Innovation Advantages

• High resistance (30 MPa in bending)
  
• High deformability (>10%)
  
• Lightness (1.75 g/cm³ )
  
• Various surface finishes
  
• Reduced cost
  
• Sustainability

Current Development Status

The material is developed for 300x300 mm2 measurements. It is necessary to improve durability, expand manufacturing dimensions, and develop anchoring systems.

Applications and Target Market

The main application of the material is its use as ventilated facade cladding. Due to its moldability, the material can also be used for drywall, false ceilings, gardening, urban furniture, ...