Construction Materials

Basalt could be the key to greener and cheaper cement

Hasanuddin University study paves way for sustainable construction in sugar-producing regions

Coffee waste transformed into high-performance, biodegradable insulation material

Researchers developed a biodegradable composite made from spent coffee grounds and natural polymer, offering strong thermal insulation while being environmentally sustainable. The new material has a thermal conductivity comparable to commercial expanded polystyrene and is fully derived from renewable resources.

Concrete sensor manufacturer Wavelogix receives $500,000 grant from National Science Foundation

Wavelogix, a concrete sensor manufacturer, has received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to refine and scale its Rebel concrete strength sensing system. The system enables faster, data-driven decisions through real-time concrete strength monitoring.

UH engineers issue hot take on cold-steel: Finding hidden damage requires radar, AI

Researchers have developed a new framework to detect possible damage in concealed cold-formed steel construction framing materials, utilizing ground-penetrating radar and artificial intelligence. The technology allows for rapid detection of damage, enabling inspectors to verify only flagged spots without removing walls or cladding.

A new model for old cracks

University of Pittsburgh engineers develop predictive models for longitudinal cracking on concrete pavements to improve road performance and reduce repairs. The project aims to create a nationwide infrastructure solution by pinpointing root causes and developing mechanistic-empirical models.

UCO designs a 100% recycled paving block made from mollusk shells and mining waste

A team from UCO develops a 100% recycled paving block made from mollusk shells and mining waste, replacing natural aggregates and conventional cement. The block meets mechanical, durability, and safety criteria without using single natural material, contributing to circular economy and decarbonization in the construction sector.

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.

Your future home might be framed with printed plastic

MIT engineers have designed a 3D-printed floor truss system made from recycled plastic, which exceeds building standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The printed flooring can hold over 4,000 pounds and weighs about 13 pounds per truss, making it a lighter alternative to traditional wood-based trusses.

Biochar-enhanced living walls could help buildings save energy while using less water

A laboratory study found that adding biochar to living wall substrates improves thermal insulation while retaining moisture more efficiently. Biochar-amended mixes showed lower thermal conductivity and improved moisture retention, reducing irrigation demand and weight when fully saturated.

New research enables safe reuse of concrete

A new framework developed by researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology enables builders to reuse structural elements confidently, extending the lifespan of used concrete by 50-100 years. The study's findings show that reusing concrete is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions and reduce waste in construction.

Broadband ultrasonic imaging shows defects in all types of concrete

Researchers developed a high-resolution 3D ultrasonic imaging system for concrete that automatically adapts to different materials, improving contrast between defects and background material. The system uses a wide range of frequencies and can handle diverse materials without manual tuning.

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.

Pompeii offers insights into ancient Roman building technology

MIT researchers analyzed a recently discovered Pompeii construction site to shed new light on ancient Roman concrete, which has endured for thousands of years. They found that hot-mixing was indeed used by the Romans, contradicting ancient texts and providing valuable insights into a material with self-healing properties.

Carbon-negative building material developed at Worcester Polytechnic Institute published in matter

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute created a carbon-negative building material called enzymatic structural material (ESM) that offers a new alternative to traditional concrete. ESM sequesters more than 6 kilograms of CO2 per cubic meter, reducing emissions by nearly 80% compared to conventional concrete.

Evaluating building materials for climate impact and noise suppression

A new study assesses various wall and floor types for their climate impact and acoustic performance, finding that timber outperforms standard steel studs in terms of climate friendliness. The research also highlights the importance of considering both acoustic comfort and environmental sustainability when designing buildings.

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.

Global construction carbon footprint set to double by 2050

The global construction sector's carbon footprint is projected to double by 2050, driven by cement, steel, and brick emissions. A material revolution is needed to reduce reliance on these materials and explore low-carbon alternatives.

Repurposing gemstone polishing waste to create smart cement

Researchers at Wuzhou University and Guangzhou University in China explored gemstone polishing waste as a possible additive in cement. Their study found that the waste significantly enhances thermal conductivity up to 159% and reduces electrical resistivity by up to 94% in cement, revealing an unexpected potential for 'smart' materials.

Cardboard and earth reshape sustainable construction

Engineers at RMIT University have developed cardboard-confined rammed earth, a novel building material that uses locally sourced materials and reduces waste going to landfill. The material boasts one quarter of the carbon footprint of concrete and can be made on-site using cardboard formwork.

Research project co-led by University of Tennessee, Knoxville among finalists in NSF Regional Innovation Engines Program

The BRIDGES proposal aims to develop a circular bioeconomy in the southeastern US by converting perennial agricultural grass crops into consumer goods. This initiative will create new markets for farmers and produce needed products while developing the region's workforce, ultimately providing access to high-paying jobs.

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.

Living cement: scientists turn bacteria-infused cement into energy-storing supercapacitors

Researchers create a biohybrid supercapacitor by embedding energy-producing bacteria in cement, storing electrical energy and regenerating its capacity. The material shows promising potential for future development and can recover up to 80% of its original energy capacity.

Researchers use seaweed to manufacture raw materials for civil construction

Brazilian researchers have developed a ceramic clay that is lighter than traditional materials by adding algae from the Sargassum genus. The addition of sargassum reduced the apparent density of lightweight ceramic clay aggregates, improving thermal comfort and reducing environmental harm.

Sneaky swirls: scientists confirm ‘hidden’ vortices could influence how soil and snow move

Researchers have confirmed the existence of hidden motions in granular materials like soil and snow, which can control their movement. This discovery could help understand how landslides and avalanches work, as well as benefit industries such as construction and grain filling.

Translating bamboo across continents and cultures

Researchers Kent Harries and Luisa Molari are advancing sustainable bamboo construction by sharing experience and insight to standardize its use. Bamboo, with its strong culms and effective carbon sequestration, holds promise for affordable housing globally.

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.

Recycled glass helps build sustainability into construction

Scientists have identified a reliable method to achieve stabilization in compressed earth blocks using recycled glass particles and lime. Testing showed that a mix of 10% lime and 10% recycled glass produced the strongest blocks with no cracking under intense pressure.

Drexel engineers want to make buildings more energy efficient by making walls, floors and ceilings more like elephant ears

Drexel engineers create vascular network within cement-based building materials that can help passively regulate surface temperature, reducing energy loss in buildings. The approach is inspired by nature's circulatory system and uses phase-change material to maintain a desired indoor temperature.

Nebraska engineers use 2 million plastic bags to pave a road

In a groundbreaking pilot project, South Sioux City has constructed a 4,000-foot stretch of Foundry Road using two million recycled plastic bags. This innovative asphalt blend aims to reduce plastic waste while improving road durability under varied weather conditions.

Living tattoos for buildings

A research team is integrating microorganisms into façade coatings to create 'living tattoos' on building walls. These organisms will protect surfaces from weathering, store CO2, and filter pollutants from the air.

Formula studied for a type of grout capable of "self-repairing" cracks in large buildings

Researchers at the University of Córdoba have created a formula for a self-repairing grout that can seal cracks in large buildings. The grout incorporates crystalline additives, which react with water to generate crystals capable of sealing cracks, minimizing infrastructure deterioration.

Multiscale fibrous reinforcements yield high-performance construction composite

A novel construction material FHPRC boasts excellent mechanical properties and is suitable for super-high-rise structures. The research optimizes tensile behavior by combining UHPC with high ductility and crack control capacity of engineered cementitious composite.

‘Wood you believe it?’ FAU engineers fortify wood with eco-friendly nano-iron

Researchers develop advanced materials from plant waste, enhancing wood strength without increasing weight or harming the environment. The treatment used is simple, cost-effective and safe, making it a potential replacement for traditional construction materials.

Flying robots unlock new horizons in construction

Aerial robots can access rough terrain and great heights, reducing material consumption and making construction sites safer. Future drones will need to overcome technological hurdles, including interdisciplinary coordination and autonomy, to be used for industrial purposes.

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...

Building material for an ancient metropolis

Researchers from Goethe University Frankfurt and LEIZA aim to analyze 4,000 stamped bricks from the Roman period to gain insights into brick production and use in ancient Trier. The study may reveal previously unknown construction projects and provide a model for integrating archaeological and archaeometric methodologies.

NTU Singapore scientists create ‘fungi tiles’ with elephant skin texture to cool buildings

Researchers develop sustainable passive cooling solution using mycelium-bound composites, outperforming conventional insulation materials in tropical climates. The 'fungi tiles' mimic an elephant's ability to regulate heat from its skin, improving cooling rates and thermal conductivity.

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.

Smart cities get smarter: AI-powered material detection for sustainable urban planning

A new study introduces an AI-powered framework that uses deep learning and remote sensing to accurately identify building materials, enabling customized material intensity databases for diverse regions. This technology facilitates sustainable urban planning, reduces embodied carbon, and enhances energy efficiency in smart cities.

Taal volcanic ash can be used for radiation shielding, Filipino researchers find

Filipino researchers have discovered that Taal volcanic ash can be used as a sustainable and lightweight alternative to expensive materials like concrete and lead. The natural presence of iron-rich minerals in the ash gives it strong radiation attenuation properties, making it effective for shielding against harmful X-rays and gamma rays.

Sustainable building components create a good indoor climate

Researchers from ETH Zurich developed hygroscopic wall and ceiling components that can significantly reduce humidity in heavily used indoor spaces, resulting in a 75% reduction in discomfort index compared to conventional painted walls.

Innovative smart window technology balances heat and visibility control

A new smart window technology combines liquid crystals with nanoporous microparticles and a patterned vanadium dioxide layer to simultaneously control visible light and infrared radiation. The device offers fast, efficient heat and visibility management, marking a significant step forward in energy-efficient building design.

Construction materials and household items are a part of a long-term carbon sink called the “technosphere”

Researchers estimate that human-made products store around 400 million tons of fossil carbon annually, equivalent to 9% of extracted fossil carbon. Recycling and increasing product lifetime can help reduce waste streams, while enacting policies to minimize landfill discharge is crucial.

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...

Sleepers made from recycled plastic could make railways even more eco-friendly

A new study by Finnish researchers found that recycled plastic railway sleepers can significantly reduce carbon emissions, with potential savings of up to 3,610 tCO2e per year. The production process for these plastics requires less energy and generates fewer emissions than traditional materials like steel and concrete.

A development by Graz University of Technology makes concreting more reliable, safer and more economical

Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a digital monitoring system to prevent costly mistakes in concreting processes. The system uses sensors and algorithms to measure and analyze various parameters, providing real-time warnings for potential issues, and eliminating the need for rework.

Leveraging skyscraper architecture for breakthrough in metal-organic framework design

A new MOF has been developed using a 'Merged-Net Strategy' inspired by skyscraper architecture, resulting in enhanced porosity and structural stability. The material exhibits superior water adsorption capacity and reusability compared to conventional MOFs.

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.

Engineers 3D print sturdy glass bricks for building structures

Researchers create interlocking glass bricks that can withstand pressures similar to concrete blocks, aiming to reduce embodied carbon in construction. The 3D-printed bricks are designed to be reused and repurposed, promoting a circular construction method.

World’s strongest battery paves way for light, energy-efficient vehicles

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have created a world-leading structural battery that can halve the weight of laptops and make mobile phones as thin as credit cards. The battery has increased its stiffness, allowing it to be used in vehicles, increasing their driving range by up to 70 percent on a single charge.

New AI tool efficiently detects asbestos in roofs so it can be removed

Researchers at Universitat Oberta de Catalunya have developed a new AI system that can detect asbestos in roof images with high accuracy, enabling its removal. The system uses freely available aerial photographs and has demonstrated an accuracy of over 80%, making it more scalable and adaptable than previous methods.

Exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers and risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality

Polybrominated diphenyl ether exposure significantly associated with cancer mortality and all-cause mortality. Further studies needed to replicate findings and understand underlying mechanisms.

New composite decking could reduce global warming effects of building materials

Scientists have developed a carbon-negative composite decking material that stores more CO2 than is required to manufacture it. The new material, which is less expensive and meets building codes, could offset up to 250,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually if replaced in the US market.

Lehigh University researchers awarded $2 million DOE grant to develop and demonstrate lower greenhouse gas cement ingredient

A research team at Lehigh University has received a three-year, $2 million grant from the Department of Energy to develop an alternative concrete binder using low-temperature calcined clays. The goal is to produce a material with properties similar to Ordinary Portland Cement but without greenhouse gas emissions.

Olympic tower construction at Teahupo’o, Tahiti could damage reef ecosystem

Researchers warn of devastating impacts of Olympic tower construction on coral reef habitat and local economy in Teahupo’o, Tahiti. The study found that the site supports a thriving coral community worth at least $170,000, with potential economic losses estimated at $1.3 million if the reef is damaged.

Oregon State receives $10 million grant to work with 13 Native American Tribes on hemp economic development

The Global Hemp Innovation Center is working with 13 Native American Tribes and other partners to spur economic development through sustainable supply chains and education. The project aims to create jobs in the emergent biobased economy and explore industrial uses of hemp.

3D printed nanocellulose upscaled for green architectural applications

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new, sustainable architectural material by 3D printing nanocellulose and algae. The material's use could significantly reduce energy consumption in construction, aligning with the European Green Deal's goals.

Rice study shows coal-based product could replace sand in concrete

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a graphene-derived material that can serve as a substitute for sand in concrete, offering a potential solution to the looming 'sand crisis.' The study found that the graphene-based concrete is 25% lighter but just as tough as conventional concrete.

Novel material facilitates measurement of concrete deterioration in buildings and other structures

Researchers developed a luminescent material that reveals concrete deterioration when exposed to ultraviolet light. The material's color change indicates the amount of carbonate absorbed, allowing for real-time detection of degradation.