Paper presented at CAADRIA2025｜AGB employees participate in research as second authors

A research paper in which Hiroki Awaji of AGB (Asahi Building Wall) was involved as a second author was presented at the International Building Conference “CAADRIA 2025” held from March 22 (Sat) to March 29 (Sat), 2025, at the Hongo Campus of the University of Tokyo.

The research proposed the development of a “reusable double-curved GRC formwork method” utilizing metamaterial structures. Conventionally, the fabrication of GRC (glass fiber reinforced cement) exteriors with free curved surfaces required special formwork that was fabricated on a case-by-case basis, which posed problems in terms of cost and waste. This research proposes an innovative formwork system that enables reuse of the formwork for multiple shapes by using a system that combines a “bending-active” structure and an “auxetic” structure.

A large 4m x 2.6m mockup was actually fabricated to verify the accuracy of shape reproduction, workability, and safety. This initiative, which combines materials engineering, structural analysis, and fabrication technology, represents the forefront of architecture and technology. AGB, which has strengths in facade engineering, also leveraged GRC’s expertise and implementation technology to provide a realistic perspective on the social implementation of the research.

AGB will continue to be actively involved in such projects that integrate academia and practice as a partner that contributes to the future of architecture while connecting field-based technology and research knowledge.