GFRP Elastic Gridshell Structures: A Review of Methods, Research, Applications, Opportunities, and Challenges

Gridshell structures have the potential to develop the construction process of free-form structures, offering numerous benefits. These include the minimum use of materials, light-weighting, the creation of a large span structure, structural efficiency, organic shapes, potential for quick and cost-effective construction, column-free spaces, maximum transparency, sustainability, and ease of deconstruction and recycling. Gridshells, regarding their architectural potential and intrinsic geometric rationality, are well-suited for creating complex shapes. Hence, the properties of gridshells depend on the equivalent pre-stress of the two-dimensional grid that was deformed. The mechanical properties of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP), such as high elastic limit strain, strength, and Young’s modulus, can further enhance the potential of gridshell structures. Gridshell structures offer numerous opportunities for constructing double curvature shells. However, they also present challenges, particularly in the design and construction process, while minimizing stress and preventing breakages of elements under the influence of forces. This paper presents a review of GFRP elastic gridshell structures, including design and construction methods. Additionally, a case study of an existing gridshell structure, the Solidays gridshell, is presented. Finally, the opportunities and challenges associated with gridshell structures are discussed.