In the quest for sustainable and energy-efficient construction, the industry is witnessing a revolution with innovative materials
The construction industry is experimenting with materials such as self-healing concrete, which repairs its own cracks, and translucent wood, which combines natural aesthetics with light transparency, in a bid to become more sustaible.
Other materials include pollution-absorbing bricks that neutralise harmful air pollutants, while light-generating cement provides a novel approach to illumination. Zero-carbon cement sharply reduces CO2 emissions, aligning with eco-friendly initiatives. Invisible solar cells seamlessly integrate into structures, enhancing energy efficiency without aesthetic compromise. Mycelium insulation, innovative in its eco-friendliness, offers superior thermal properties.
These advancements are not just shaping the future of building but setting new standards in construction practices.
Self-healing concrete
Self-healing concrete stands out as a groundbreaking development, poised to transform infrastructure longevity and maintenance. By embedding Bacillus bacteria within the concrete matrix, this advanced material autonomously repairs cracks by producing calcite, a natural sealant. This ability not only enhances durability but also reduces maintenance costs associated with infrastructure projects.
Self-healing concrete’s potential to extend the lifespan of structures to an impressive 200 years marks a notable leap forward in sustainable construction practices. By minimising the need for frequent repairs and replacements, this material offers a solution that conserves both time and resources. The cost-effectiveness of self-healing concrete makes it an attractive choice for large-scale infrastructure projects, where budget constraints and long-term durability are paramount.
Translucent wood
Developed at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, translucent wood offers a sustainable alternative to glass, marrying the timeless beauty of wood with the transparency traditionally associated with glass. This innovative building material opens up new possibilities for sustainable architecture by allowing natural light to flood interiors, thereby reducing dependency on artificial lighting and contributing to energy efficiency.
The creation of translucent wood involves an intricate process where lignin, the component that gives wood its natural opacity, is removed. It is then replaced with a transparent polymer, resulting in a material that maintains the structural integrity of wood while achieving a level of translucency. This transformation not only brings a unique aesthetic appeal but also enhances the functional versatility of wood, making it suitable for various applications in architecture, interior design, and even furniture production.
For architects and designers yearning for freedom from conventional constraints, translucent wood offers a fresh canvas. It combines nature’s warmth and texture with the modern need for light and openness, presenting a harmonious blend of form and function. As a glass alternative, it aligns with the ethos of sustainable architecture, offering a reduced carbon footprint compared to energy-intensive glass production processes. The promise of translucent wood is vast, poised to redefine the future of building by introducing a material that is both innovative and environmentally considerate.
Pollution absorbing bricks
Pollution absorbing bricks offer a proactive approach to improving urban air quality. These innovative bricks, developed by assistant professor Carmen Trudell, are designed with a special coating capable of neutralising air pollutants like nitrogen oxides when exposed to sunlight. As urban environments become increasingly congested and air quality deteriorates, the need for such sustainable solutions becomes ever more urgent.
The unique design of these bricks allows them to be integrated into building facades, transforming standard structures into air-purifying entities. This not only enhances the functionality of buildings in urban settings but also aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible construction practices. By reducing air pollution levels, these bricks contribute significantly to healthier city living, addressing both environmental and public health concerns.
Light-generating cement
Light-emitting cement, a groundbreaking development by Dr. José Carlos Rubio Ávalos, stands as a revolutionary advancement in the field of construction materials. This innovative cement absorbs sunlight or artificial light, and subsequently emits light for several hours, offering a sustainable lighting solution that notably reduces reliance on traditional energy sources.
The core appeal of light-emitting cement lies in its ability to transform ordinary structures into self-illuminating edifices. By integrating light-emitting properties into structural elements, it allows architects and builders to conceive designs that minimise energy consumption and operational costs. Imagine pathways, facades, and even entire buildings that glow after sunset without the need for external lighting. This not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a sustainable future by minimising the environmental impact associated with conventional lighting.
Zero-carbon cement
Developed by the DB Group, this ultra-low carbon alternative offers an impressive 80% carbon savings compared to traditional cement options. It directly addresses the pressing need to reduce construction CO2 emissions, a sector responsible for approximately 25% of global emissions attributed to cement production.
The innovation behind zero-carbon cement lies in its potential to transform the industry’s approach to sustainability. The DB Group’s Cemfree product exemplifies how zero-carbon cement can be seamlessly integrated into commercial projects, as evidenced by successful applications in the UK. This material not only reduces the embodied carbon in construction materials but also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions that do not compromise on performance or durability.
Invisible solar cells
Hidden solar cells represent a groundbreaking advancement in sustainable energy technology. These cutting-edge cells harness ultraviolet and infrared light to generate energy, offering a transformative approach to energy extraction. Unlike traditional solar panels, which are often bulky and visually intrusive, hidden solar cells can be seamlessly integrated into windows and doors of skyscrapers. This integration provides a discreet yet highly efficient method to meet building energy needs, expanding the horizon of solar power utilisation.
Hidden solar cells do not just blend into the architecture; they redefine it by providing a sustainable solution that combines aesthetics with functionality. Their ability to harness light beyond the visible spectrum means energy generation can occur without compromising the visual appeal or design integrity of modern structures. As a result, architects and builders are increasingly drawn to this technology, which aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Ultraviolet & Infrared Energy Extraction | Expands energy generation potential |
| Integration into Windows & Doors | Enhances building design aesthetics |
| Discreet Solar Power Solution | Maintains architectural integrity |
Mycelium Insulation
Derived from the vegetative structure of mushrooms, known as mycelium, this innovative construction material offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive option for the building industry. Not only does mycelium insulation provide superior insulation properties, but it also actively contributes to environmental sustainability by removing carbon from the atmosphere.
The building industry is increasingly embracing environmentally friendly solutions, and mycelium insulation stands out due to its impressive features:
- High Durability: Mycelium insulation is resistant to mold, water, and fire, ensuring longevity and reliability in various conditions.
- Enhanced Insulation Properties: It offers better thermal insulation compared to traditional materials, providing greater energy efficiency.
- Carbon Sequestration: This material captures and stores carbon, contributing to a reduction of atmospheric CO2 levels.
- Sustainable Production: Mycelium grows rapidly and can be cultivated using agricultural waste, minimising resource consumption.
- Biodegradability: At the end of its life cycle, mycelium insulation can decompose naturally, leaving no toxic residue.
