Building Construction
Articles tagged with Building Construction
Mount Sinai Health System breaks ground on new clinically advanced intensive care unit that will nearly triple current capacity at Mount Sinai Queens
The new 21-bed ICU will increase access to advanced care and enable more Queens residents to receive care locally. Construction is expected to take approximately 16 months and will be funded in part by New York City and State as well as through Mount Sinai’s capital resources.
The University of Hong Kong and Nanjing University establish “Joint Laboratory for AI-enabled City Development and Safety Governance”
The joint laboratory will leverage AI to enhance urban health assessments, integrate big data, and develop integrated governance solutions. The research will focus on six core areas, including national strategic priorities and technical bottlenecks in AI and digital twins.
Bamboo waste treatment method improves strength and insulation in green building composites
A mild chemical strategy enhances interfacial bonding and pore structure in biomass-based magnesium cement materials, leading to improved mechanical strength and thermal insulation. The approach promotes more uniform pore distribution, stabilizes the foam structure within the composite, and reduces environmental burden.
Elif and Alp Tural help students see that meaningful design begins with understanding people
Elif and Alp Tural teach interior designers to consider how spaces affect users every day, emphasizing trauma-informed design and visual accessibility. Their approach aims to create legible and comfortable environments that respond to users' needs.
Housing Bureau and HKU sign MOU on innovative technological research and applications for public housing developments in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Housing Bureau and the University of Hong Kong have signed an MOU to leverage research prowess in advancing construction technologies for public housing projects. The partnership aims to bring world-class innovations to local construction practices, prioritizing quality, sustainability, and efficiency.
Dan M. Frangopol earns repeat ASCE honor for bridge resilience research
Frangopol and his team develop a framework to optimize seismic retrofit strategies for deteriorating bridge columns, balancing risk and cost. The approach integrates time-dependent risk assessment, economic evaluation, and real options analysis to identify optimal intervention timing under uncertainty.
Engineers help rewrite the rules behind Europe’s skyscrapers and bridges
University of Warwick engineers led an international committee to update Eurocode 4, a standard for composite steel and concrete structures used in buildings and bridges. The updated standard introduces new guidance for modern construction techniques and advances the design of shear connections.
Concrete as a carbon sink
Researchers are developing sustainable alternative cements that can bind CO₂ permanently, making concrete a climate-friendly material. By using CO₂ from industrial exhaust gases, these new cements can reduce emissions and create a carbon sink.
Billion-DKK grant for research in green transformation of the built environment
The CEBE program aims to develop new knowledge and solutions to reduce the climate impact of construction. The program will focus on seven research fields, including assessing and measuring sustainability, and collaborate with international partners.
Surviving the extreme temperatures of the climate crisis calls for a revolution in home and building design
As climates become more extreme, traditional building designs are failing to keep people safe and comfortable. A new generation of architects is creating climate-ready buildings that can maintain comfortable temperatures independently from the grid, using local natural resources like sun, wind, and ground-sourced energy.
Researchers launch open European climate data platform to support energy-efficient and climate-resilient buildings
The Norwegian University of Life Sciences has launched ClimateDataForBuildings, an open platform providing energy and climate modelling data for over 3,600 European locations. The platform delivers high-resolution CERRA reanalysis data for building performance and HVAC design.
University of East London partners with STRABAG UK to pioneer low-carbon tunnelling solution
The University of East London and STRABAG UK have developed a pioneering low-carbon grout that replaces traditional cement-heavy annulus grout, reducing embodied carbon by over 61%. The innovation uses repurposed construction waste and agricultural by-products to create a sustainable alternative.
New SEOULTECH study reveals transparent windows that shield buildings from powerful electromagnetic pulses
A new window technology shields buildings from EMP threats while maintaining transparency. The innovative design offers broadband EMP protection with high optical transparency, suitable for practical architectural applications.
Living walls boost biodiversity by providing safe spaces for urban wildlife
A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.
Measuring movement creates new way to map indoor air pollution
Researchers developed a new way of measuring indoor air pollution by analyzing human movement, showing elevated levels of pollutants during occupied periods. The study provides a new approach to designing healthier indoor spaces, combining Birmingham's air-pollution expertise with radar-based sensing and optimization techniques.
Hanbat National University researchers reveal smart transparent woods that block UV and save energy
Researchers from Hanbat National University develop switchable thermochromic transparent woods for smart windows, blocking UV radiation and reducing thermal conductivity. The material enables energy-autonomous light regulation and protects skin without sacrificing visible light.
Homes that can withstand extremes: New study reveals pathways to housing resilience
Researchers identified key building code features that impact hazard resilience, including prioritizing structural elements like lateral support. Smarter regulation and stronger structures can work together to create safer homes, but local expertise is crucial in places with independent-minded populations.
Dynamic duo of bacteria could change Mars dust into versatile building material for first human colonists
A collaboration of bacteria, including Sporosarcina pasteurii and Chroococcidiopsis, produces natural cement-like materials that can turn Martian regolith into solid concrete. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize construction on Mars and provide benefits for habitat integrity and life-support systems.
Two new studies from Schneider Electric and the Boston University Institute for Global Sustainability reveal 95 barriers and 50 risks slowing decarbonization in the building sector
Two new studies from Schneider Electric and Boston University Institute for Global Sustainability identify 95 sociotechnical barriers and 50 risks hindering progress in the high-stakes buildings sector. The research highlights complex interplay between economic, political, social, and behavioral factors driving inefficiencies and costs.
Student innovation connects wildfire resilience, safety to home design
Two UBC Okanagan engineering students created a framework to evaluate wildfire resilience and sustainability in home design. The Wildfire-Resilient and Sustainable Evaluation Framework for British Columbia (WiSE-BC) applies analytical hierarchy process, suitable for single-family builds and community-scale planning.
Smart bamboo glass" cuts energy bills and carbon footprint in one stroke
The smart bamboo glass exhibits record tensile strength, flexibility, and impact toughness while retaining high visible-light transmission. Annual HVAC savings range from 1.6% to 5.58%, reducing global-warming potential by 35% and human-toxicity indicators by 40-60%.
Sinking Indian megacities pose 'alarming' building damage risks
Researchers warn of structural weakening in urban areas as a result of groundwater overexploitation, posing risks to millions of people. Satellite radar data reveals nearly 1.9 million people exposed to subsidence rates greater than 4 millimeters per year.
Dan M. Frangopol honored by University of Rostock at international workshop
Professor Dan M. Frangopol, Lehigh University's inaugural Fazlur R. Khan Endowed Chair, was recognized for his work on life-cycle civil engineering at the 21st International Probabilistic Workshop in Germany. He is widely credited with establishing this field and has authored over 500 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Passive silver-nanoring coating points to “self-regulating” smart windows — without power or tinting
Aarhus University researchers have developed a transparent layer with silver nanorings that adapts to sunlight intensity, controlling heat entry through glass without dimming the view. The thermoplasmonic effect reduces near-infrared transmission, lowering cooling demand and CO₂ emissions in energy-efficient buildings.
Electric space heating, appliances reduce US residential energy consumption
A study by Penn State researchers found that using electricity for space heating can significantly reduce on-site household energy consumption. The team also identified other factors, such as the use of electric water heaters and construction methods, that contribute to energy savings.
Wilkes Center awards $250,000 Climate Launch Prize to Build up Nepal
Build up Nepal's eco-brick technology reduces CO2 emissions and makes homes safer while cutting construction costs. The company will use the prize to scale up its innovative solution.
Architecture’s past holds the key to sustainable future
The authors argue that energy availability has driven architectural design throughout history, with fossil fuels transforming buildings in the 17th century. They challenge conventional wisdom on sustainability, highlighting the high energy costs of modern minimalist designs like the Seagram Building.
Hanyang University researchers develop digital twin framework to enhance sustainability and efficiency of modular buildings
Researchers create digital twin facility management system for relocatable modular buildings, improving asset management and decision making. The DT-FMS enhances the lifecycle management of RMBs, minimizing waste and maximizing value through reuse and reconfiguration.
Is ancient Roman concrete more sustainable than modern concrete?
Researchers investigated the sustainability of ancient Roman concrete, finding that reproducing its recipe would require comparable energy and water, emitting similar CO2. However, Roman concrete's heightened durability might make it a more sustainable option due to reduced maintenance needs, potentially reducing environmental impact.
Smarter tools for policymakers: Notre Dame researchers target urban carbon emissions, building by building
Researchers at Notre Dame's School of Architecture and the Lucy Family Institute for Data & Society developed EcoSphere, an AI-powered platform that visualizes embodied carbon emissions. The tool helps city planners identify strategies to reduce carbon emissions through renovation and extended building life.
Creating carbon-capturing cement
A team of Penn engineers and materials scientists have developed a biomineral-infused concrete that captures up to 142% more CO2 than conventional mixes while using less cement. The new material is stronger, lighter, and uses fewer materials like cement.
Stuckeman professor’s new book explores ‘socially sustainable’ architecture
The book examines how architects can better serve society by changing their approach to the building process. Staub discusses three components of sustainability: ecological, economic, and social, highlighting social sustainability as an under-discussed aspect in architecture.
Dan M. Frangopol honored with IASSAR’s inaugural Distinguished Service Award
Dan M. Frangopol, a pioneer in life-cycle civil engineering, has been recognized by the International Association of Structural Safety and Reliability (IASSAR) for his sustained service to the organization. He is the inaugural recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, established in 2013.
A building material that lives and stores carbon
Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a living material that can absorb CO2 from the air through photosynthesis and store it in a stable mineral form. The material, made with cyanobacteria, can be shaped using 3D printing and requires sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow.
Using AI to construct on the level
Researchers developed FLAT, a digital tool assessing laser scans to locate uneven areas on concrete slabs. The AI-assisted algorithm reduces foundation measurement time by over 90%, enabling faster building construction with minimal human involvement.
"A unique position in Swedish architecture"
A new thesis on Uppsala University's Main Building delves into its architectural design, exploring how the building deviated from original plans. The study reveals the significance of antiquity-inspired themes, including a dragon mural and plaster casts of statues.
Stuttgart Cluster of Excellence IntCDC receives funding for a further seven years
The Stuttgart Cluster of Excellence IntCDC will continue to develop innovative construction methods that reduce resource consumption and CO2 emissions through computational design and engineering methods. The cluster aims to evolve its Co-Design approach into a Co-Agency approach, focusing on bio-based building materials, AI technologi...
How property owners can work to prevent flooding
Researchers from Linköping University provide a severe impacts approach to guide property owners in preventing flooding by identifying design weaknesses, prioritizing worst-case scenarios, and promoting proactive measures such as installing backflow valves and raising entrance thresholds.
Study explores how to use AI to listen to the ‘heartbeat’ of a city
University of Missouri researchers create digital sentiment map using AI to analyze public Instagram posts, linking emotional tone to real-life features. The tool aims to improve city services, identify areas of concern, and inform emergency response decisions.
Woodn't that be nice
A team of researchers at Kyoto University has developed a simple but effective method for detecting early wood coating deterioration, which can extend the life of wooden structures and improve sustainability. The approach combines mid-infrared spectroscopy with machine learning to predict the extent of deterioration, allowing for early...
After greening comes darkness….and it really does matter!
Researchers propose darkening cities to improve biodiversity, human health, and reduce energy waste by embracing nocturnal living. Professor Nick Dunn's 'Dark Futures: When the Lights Go Down' presents a vision for an alternative future that reconnects humans with nature's rhythms.
Building a safer future: Rice researcher works to strengthen Haiti’s earthquake resilience
A Rice University researcher is working to fortify buildings in Haiti against future earthquakes with cost-effective retrofitting solutions. The study, recently published in Earthquake Spectra, explores five techniques to improve seismic performance, including steel braces and reinforced concrete jacketing.
Raytheon's $2 million gift commitment fuels student leadership in engineering
The University of Arizona College of Engineering is expanding its Student Design and Innovation Center with a $2 million gift from Raytheon, named the Raytheon Student Leadership Suite. The center will accommodate the college's considerable growth and provide resources for experiential learning, makerspaces, and student clubs.
From waste to wonder: Revolutionary green grout for sustainable construction practices
A novel carbon-neutral grout, CSRGF, has been developed by recycling waste fluids from geothermal energy harvesting plants, addressing environmental challenges in traditional grouting methods. The new material shows remarkable performance, with a 50% increase in liquefaction resistance and superior water-sealing properties.
Hurricane-proofed downtown skyscrapers unexpectedly vulnerable to ‘bouncing’ winds
A new study reveals that downtown Houston skyscrapers designed to withstand hurricanes are actually more vulnerable to intense, localized wind forces called downbursts. The research found that these strong winds can cause significant damage to facade panels, cladding, and windows on lower floors.
New environmentally-friendly mortar reduces heat loss
Researchers at Newcastle University have developed a new environmentally-friendly mortar made from recycled plastic and silica aerogel, which improves insulation and reduces plastic waste. The new mortar mix reduced heat loss by up to 55% while maintaining the required strength for masonry construction.
Sinking truths: University of Houston confirms Miami’s coastal subsidence challenges
Researchers from the University of Houston have confirmed alarming rates of subsidence in Miami's barrier islands, with 35 skyscrapers sinking up to three inches into the ground since 2016. The study used InSAR technology to detect changes in the earth's surface and found that construction-induced stresses extend beyond building footpr...
Seoultech researchers use machine learning to ensure safe structural design
A new hybrid machine learning model predicts ultimate axial strength of CFRP-strengthened CFST columns with high accuracy, enabling safer and more efficient designs. The model can be used to optimize construction processes and enhance the safety of structures at a lower cost.
Protective actions need regulatory support to fully defend homeowners and coastal communities, study finds
A recent study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction found that US homeowners take proactive steps to protect their properties before and after hurricanes, but often fall short due to inadequate regulations. The study's methodology provides a framework for future research on incentivizing comprehensive prote...
Storing carbon in buildings could help address climate change
A new study by civil engineers and earth systems scientists at the University of California, Davis and Stanford University suggests that storing carbon in buildings could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers calculated that using carbonated aggregates to make concrete could absorb a gigaton of CO2 annually.
Graz University of Technology develops modular timber high-rise building for resource-efficient construction
The Graz University of Technology has developed a modular timber high-rise building system that combines prefabricated 3D timber modules with open load-bearing structures. This allows for flexible adaptations, extended operating life, and reduced resource consumption. The system enables targeted repairs and replacements of individual m...
NTU Singapore scientists develop 3D concrete printing method that captures carbon dioxide
Researchers have developed a 3D concrete printing system that captures and stores carbon dioxide, offering a promising alternative to traditional cement-based construction methods. The innovation improves printability, increases strength, and enhances mechanical properties, resulting in stronger and more eco-friendly buildings.
Dan M. Frangopol and Sunyong Kim co-author third book on structural performance
The authors introduce advanced methodologies for integrating maintenance strategies and structural health monitoring to extend infrastructure service life. Topics include data-driven decision-making, multi-objective optimization, cost-benefit analysis, and the role of data analytics in managing uncertainties.
Open those windows: Natural ventilation in historic buildings can reduce mechanical system use, save energy and create healthier indoor environments
Researchers at Drexel University investigated natural ventilation strategies in historic homes to understand how their inherent energy-efficient features can inform modern energy conservation efforts. The study found that passive cooling and cross-ventilation can achieve energy savings and improve thermal comfort, particularly in hot a...
Origami-inspired architecture
A multidisciplinary team of engineers and architects applied origami techniques to create living buildings that respond to environmental factors. The researchers combined human design creativity with computational intelligence to increase the effectiveness of designs for environmentally responsive building technologies.
Advancement in 3D-printed concrete promises strength, durability and lower carbon emissions
Researchers developed a more sustainable 3D-printed concrete material combining graphene with limestone and calcined clay cement. The new material offers enhanced strength and durability while significantly reducing carbon emissions, making it a powerful solution for addressing environmental challenges in 3D printed construction.
Concrete sensor manufacturer Wavelogix receives $1 million grant from National Science Foundation
The National Science Foundation has awarded Wavelogix a two-year, $999,910 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II grant. The funding will help the company develop a complete solution for scaling up production of its REBEL concrete strength sensors, enabling faster and data-driven decisions in construction engineering.
New origami-inspired system turns flat-pack tubes into strong building materials
Engineers at RMIT University have designed a self-locking tubular structural system inspired by curved-crease origami that can be packed flat for easier transport. The system transforms into strong building materials, suitable for large-scale use, with capabilities to support heavy loads.
Demand-side actions could help construction sector deliver on net-zero targets
A new study suggests that using state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies can enable Europe's construction sector to almost eliminate its carbon emissions by 2060. Employing technologies like solar energy and heat pumps can reduce total energy used for heating and cooling buildings by up to 97%.