The Minimal Wall: Full-Scale Testing and Structural Evaluation of Enhanced Glass-Aluminium Composite Façade

Full-Scale Testing and Structural Evaluation of Enhanced Glass-Aluminium Composite Façade

Abstract

Innovation in façade design and material efficiency is essential to meeting stringent sustainability targets and reducing the embodied carbon of building envelopes. This study presents full-scale structural testing of unitised façade panels incorporating advanced glass–aluminium bonding technology, in which adhesive connections are utilised to enhance flexural stiffness. Tests conducted under controlled laboratory conditions demonstrate that the system enables structural optimisation while satisfying serviceability and strength criteria, allowing up to a 15% reduction in aluminium framing without compromising performance or service life. In addition, the technology enhances transparency by reducing frame depth, thereby improving daylighting and increasing usable floor area. When combined with appropriate design detailing, it also accommodates glass replacement and allows recycling, minimising non-reusable waste.