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Scientists want to 3D print houses on Mars with the help of yeast

Researchers have created a recipe for 3D printing houses on Mars using Martian rocks, gelatin, and yeast. The resulting living building material is strong and can be broken down, recycled, and reused, making it a promising solution for low-energy construction and a circular economy on the Red Planet.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem Circularity·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2026

Seoul National University of Science and Technology develops an AI framework for long-term bridge damage monitoring

Researchers developed an automated computer vision system to monitor long-term bridge damage using routine drone inspections. The framework enables the tracking of structural damage progression and measurement of severity, with a maximum error rate of 4.61% compared to manual measurements.

SourceSeoul National University of Science & Technology·JournalStructural Health Monitoring·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

Jeonbuk National University researchers develop clustering-based framework for water level forecasting

The new framework groups stations with similar hydrological behavior, reducing computational cost while maintaining high predictive accuracy. This approach enables scalable, data-efficient AI systems for water level forecasting, supporting flood early-warning systems, optimized reservoir and irrigation management, and improved decision...

SourceJeonbuk National University, Sustainable Strategy team, Planning and Coordination Division·JournalEnvironmental Modelling & Software·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 16, 2026

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.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Computing in Civil Engineering·DateMar 5, 2026

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.

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.

SourceRMIT University·JournalStructures·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2025

Cyclic triaxial tests: Evaluation of liquefaction resistance in chemically treated soils

Researchers developed a strain-controlled testing method for evaluating liquefaction resistance in chemically treated soils, reducing carbon-dioxide emissions by up to 60%. The new method yielded consistent results, improving urban resilience and reducing economic losses in earthquake-prone regions.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalResults in Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2025

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.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 30, 2025

So, our city’s shrinking—Now what?

A study analyzed per capita municipal expenditures and their correlation with population changes in small and medium-sized cities in Japan. The results revealed that prioritizing child welfare expenditures is a key strategy to sustain populations, while city planning expenditures on street maintenance and construction were also effective.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Urban Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 30, 2025

Diagnosing a dud may lead to a better battery

A team of chemists from Virginia Tech found a way to visualize the intricate structure and chemical reactions of battery interfaces using an X-ray beam line. This breakthrough enables researchers to gain better control over these critical surfaces, potentially leading to cheaper, higher performance batteries.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 1, 2025

Carbon-negative manufacturing method creates strong building materials

Researchers developed an electrochemical process to sequester carbon dioxide, transforming it into durable and fire-resistant materials. The resulting mineral-polymer composites demonstrate exceptional mechanical strength and fracture toughness, offering a promising solution for carbon-negative construction.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·Journalnpj Advanced Manufacturing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 21, 2025

Swarm-intelligence collaboration based regular scheduling and dynamic rescheduling of precast component production: in prefabricated building project management

Researchers propose a swarm-intelligence collaboration to optimize precast component production scheduling and rescheduling. The approach uses dynamic-interval synergy auctions and weighted Tchebycheff approaches to generate optimal schemes, improving management efficiency and reducing costs in prefabricated building project management.

SourceELSP·JournalSmart Construction·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2025

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.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalCase Studies in Construction Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2025

Plasma arc cutting: PNU and KIMM scientists together decode gas flow dynamics

Researchers develop novel methods to visualize and understand gas flow dynamics in plasma arc cutting, improving cut quality and efficiency. They found that curved cutting fronts result in oblique shockwave structures, which reduce flow velocity and can lead to safer and more efficient dismantling of nuclear facilities.

SourcePusan National University·JournalInternational Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2025

SEOULTECH researchers develop autonomous geological assessment tool

A research team developed an autonomous geological assessment tool that uses machine learning to measure dip angles and directions in rock facets with high accuracy, achieving rates of up to 99.4%. The R-C-D-F method eliminates joint bands while preserving joint embedment points, making it ideal for modern infrastructure projects.

SourceSeoul National University of Science & Technology·JournalTunnelling and Underground Space Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2025

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...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalEarth and Space Science·DateJan 27, 2025

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.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalCarbon Capture Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2024

A dynamic evaluation approach for operation and maintenance performance and status of large gymnasiums considering spatio-temporal dimensions

Researchers developed a comprehensive framework for assessing performance metrics across multiple dimensions, including safety, energy efficiency, and user perspectives. The method provides a dynamic evaluation guideline for the comprehensive evaluation of large gymnasiums, considering spatio-temporal dimensions.

SourceELSP·JournalSmart Construction·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2024

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.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2024

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.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of Building Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists apply ancient construction methods to help fabricate modern microparticles

Researchers use tongue and groove technique inspired by ancient East Asian wooden structures to create advanced ceramic microparticles with unprecedented complexity and precision. These particles can be used in various applications across microelectronics, aerospace, energy, and medical engineering.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

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%.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2024

Moving particle simulation-aided soil plasticity analysis for earth pressure balance shield tunnelling

A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a moving particle simulation-aided soil plasticity analysis for earth pressure balance shield tunnelling. The study found that earth pressure is a reliable indicator for analyzing soil plasticity and proposed a computer-aided analysis system that precisely reflects e...

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalTunnelling and Underground Space Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 17, 2024

New research solves Crystal Palace mystery

A new study by Anglia Ruskin University reveals that the Crystal Palace was constructed using a standard screw thread, allowing for rapid completion in just 190 days. This innovation played a significant role in the building's success and had far-reaching implications for engineering and construction.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal for the History of Engineering & Technology·DateSep 16, 2024

Sustaining oyster farming with sturdier rafts

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed polyethylene rafts that are about five times more durable than traditional bamboo rafts used in oyster farming. The new rafts are designed to be affordable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing damage from typhoons.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalOcean Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2024

Pusan National University researchers use artificial intelligence to create powerful sound-dampening materials

A new deep learning-based inverse design method allows for the optimization of complex acoustic metamaterials, reducing noise pollution while maintaining ventilation. The approach enables ultra-broadband sound attenuation across various peak frequencies.

SourcePusan National University·JournalEngineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Urban concrete mines

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to combine old concrete with carbon dioxide to create a new, durable material called calcium carbonate concrete. The process involves grinding the old concrete into powder, reacting it with CO2 from the air, and then heating it to form the new block.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

All-in-one method measures CO2 in concrete

A new device developed by University of Tokyo researchers can measure carbon dioxide captured in concrete quickly and accurately, skipping the need to crush concrete samples. This innovation aims to support global efforts to reach carbon neutrality and offset emissions from the concrete sector.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2024