Modern high-rise buildings often incorporate external wall insulation boards during construction, which serve to insulate and protect the structure from heat transfer. These materials not only enhance thermal efficiency but also provide a protective layer that helps prolong the lifespan of the outer wall's concrete and brick components. However, over time, these insulation materials can degrade due to various factors. In this article, we'll explore the main reasons behind this aging process, which can be broadly categorized into five key areas.
1. Thermal Stress. One of the primary causes of degradation is thermal stress, which arises from temperature fluctuations. As the temperature changes, the non-structural elements expand and contract, leading to continuous movement and instability. This stress is particularly significant in high-rise buildings, where the outer layers are more exposed to temperature variations. Compared to lower buildings, high-rises experience greater thermal stress and deformation. Therefore, when designing the insulation system, it’s crucial to choose flexible materials that allow for gradual deformation, ensuring that the insulation material has higher deformability than the underlying structure.
2. Wind Pressure. High-rise buildings are especially vulnerable to wind pressure, both positive and negative. Positive wind pressure pushes against the building, while negative pressure pulls away from it, potentially causing damage to the insulation layer. To counter this, the insulation should be designed to resist wind forces effectively. It’s important to eliminate any air cavities within the insulation system to prevent expansion or contraction under wind pressure, especially in negative pressure conditions, which can lead to structural failure.
3. Earthquake Forces. Seismic activity poses a serious threat to high-rise buildings, as earthquakes can cause twisting, shearing, or distortion of the building’s structure and its insulation layer. The rigidity of the insulation surface plays a role in how much seismic force it can withstand. If too rigid, it may suffer more damage during an earthquake. Thus, high-rise insulation systems must balance flexibility with strong adhesion, allowing them to absorb and distribute seismic stress, reducing the risk of large-scale cracking, peeling, or even detachment of the insulation layer.
4. Water or Steam. Moisture and vapor can significantly impact the durability of external insulation. To prevent water ingress and condensation, it’s essential to use materials with good water resistance and vapor permeability. This helps avoid internal moisture buildup, which can lead to mold, reduced insulation effectiveness, and structural damage. Additionally, choosing materials that are resistant to rain, water erosion, and freeze-thaw cycles enhances the longevity of the insulation system.
5. Fire Resistance. Fire safety is a critical concern in high-rise buildings, as fires can spread rapidly and pose a serious risk to occupants. Insulation materials used in such structures must have excellent fire-resistant properties. They should not only resist combustion but also prevent the spread of flames and minimize the release of smoke and toxic gases. Moreover, the material should maintain its structural integrity and not crack or collapse during a fire, as this could endanger both residents and firefighters, complicating rescue operations.
Polycarbonate Folding Door,Commercial Folding Door,Polycarbonate Folding Gate,Transparent Polycarbonate Slat Aluminium Folding Door
Dongguan HengTaichang Doors Co, Ltd. , https://www.dghtcdoor.com