Composite UHPC facade elements with functional surfaces

This paper presents an innovative way to combine an external ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) supporting layer with an insulation layer of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) or cellular lightweight concrete (CLC) to create light-weight facade elements, which are improved in functionality and in energy efficiency. The durability of the facade elements is improved by developing UHPC with self-cleaning properties. One approach is based on the photocatalytic activation of the external UHPC shell by incorporation of TiO2 particles. The second approach consists of the modification of the UHPC surface by micro structuring in combination with the application of water-repellent agents to create durable super hydrophobicity. The current results obtained from laboratory testing are promising and demonstrate the feasibility of the approaches.