Cement-Based Multilayer Assembly for Biological Facades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for green roofs and vertical gardens require complex auxiliary structures and substrates, leading to additional loads and limited integration with the environment, and existing technologies do not effectively address the need for a substrate that supports specific pH requirements for biological growth.
Innovation Solution
A cement-based multilayer assembly comprising a structural layer, a low pH biological layer for water retention and organism growth, and a unidirectional waterproofing cladding layer, which captures and directs water to promote biological growth while preventing water loss, using conventional cement or magnesium phosphate cement with specific additives to achieve pH and porosity requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex auxiliary structures and substrates are used for green roofs and vertical gardens, then biological growth is supported, but additional loads and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the substrate and support structure into a single integrated cement-based panel system. The panel combines structural support, water retention, nutrient delivery, and pH control functions in one unified component, eliminating the need for separate containers, substrate layers, and auxiliary support structures while maintaining reliable biological growth conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The cement-based panel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, retains water through porous morphology, delivers nutrients through controlled leaching, maintains appropriate pH levels, and supports biological growth. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate components
2Strength
If conventional cement or hydraulic binder is used, then structural integrity is achieved, but pH requirements for biological growth are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical parameters of conventional cement by incorporating specific additives (such as lime, fly ash, or chemical admixtures) that adjust the pH of the pore solution from the typically alkaline range (pH 12-13) to a more biologically suitable range (pH 7-9). This parameter change maintains structural integrity while making the environment appropriate for biological growth
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite cement-based material that combines conventional hydraulic binder with pH-modifying additives and potentially other supplementary cementitious materials. This composite approach allows simultaneous achievement of structural strength and appropriate pH levels that support biological growth
3Reliability
If water is retained in the substrate for biological growth, then organism survival is improved, but water loss from the structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a cement-based panel with controlled porous morphology that allows water to be retained within the pore structure through capillary action. The porosity is optimized to hold sufficient water for biological growth while the unidirectional waterproofing layer prevents excessive water loss, creating an efficient water retention system
4Loss of substance
If unidirectional waterproofing is implemented, then water retention is improved, but water management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the water management function into two distinct components: the porous cement-based panel that handles water absorption and internal retention, and the unidirectional waterproofing layer that controls water release. This segmentation simplifies the overall water management system by dividing functions into specialized zones rather than requiring a complex integrated system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multilayer assembly allows for direct biological growth on building facades without complex structures, enhancing environmental integration and visual appeal by controlling water exit and retention, suitable for various organisms like cyanophytes and chlorophytes, and can be applied to both new and existing structures.
Implementation Method 1
storing it in the inner microstructure of the material
Implementation Method 2
unidirectional waterproofing cladding layer that captures and directs water to promote biological growth while preventing water loss
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a cement-based multilayer assembly that can be used as a biological support for building façades or other structures, said assembly comprising an optionally newly-installed structural concrete layer (1), an anchoring layer (2), a biological layer (3) made from a cement-based material and a waterproofing cladding layer (4) with cavities (5) in which the biological layer (3) is in direct contact with the environment. The biological layer (3) is made from conventionally produced concrete or mortar including a retarder- or acid-type chemical additive with a pH between 5.5 and 8, or from an MPC cement (Magnesium-Phosphate Cement) having a phosphate source and a magnesium source. The biological layer (3) includes aggregates of the siliceous or expanded clay type, the maximum size of which not exceeding one quarter of the thickness of the layer.