13 Ago Construction Materials that Are Changing the World
Sustainability is more than a trend: it’s a much needed response to the ecological and climate crisis we’re facing. While many construction companies are already implementing sustainable policies, there’s still a long way to go from here. Here’s a list of revolutionary materials that are changing the world one building at a time.
MYCELIUM
This material consists of a fiber that is found in mushrooms’ roots. The versatility of this material allows it to be shaped in almost any way you can imagine. It also has surprising durability and can provide extreme heat insulation. This last aspect is crucial, since it can replace synthetic materials for home insulation like styrofoam, offering an organic and compostable alternative. The material used for this purpose grows and strengthens through time, providing extra support for the walls. Another benefit of mycelium is its production process: since it grows underground, it doesn’t need any extra source of energy, turning it into one of the most sustainable materials ever used.
GRASSCRETE
Grasscrete is a sustainable, environmentally friendly solution for regular pavement. It is made by pouring regular concrete over void formers, which can be filled with porous materials like stones, sand, grave or vegetation. The voids allow water to pour through the concrete, thus avoiding floods or water-related trouble.
STRAW BALES
This material is a renewable and sustainable alternative to concrete, wood, stone, and fiberglass. It’s not a new idea at all, but it has been rescued in order to be implemented throughout new projects. It’s made from the waste of the agricultural industry. It can be used instead of lumber, as a way more sustainable alternative for walls that has the benefit of being extra thick and resistant. The homes built with straw bales are perfect for extreme weather, offering also a considerable reduction of energy used to warm or cool spaces.
WOOL INSULATION
Wool is becoming an increasingly popular alternative for the use of fiberglass insulation. It has an even bigger insulating factor and can tolerate extreme moisture conditions without losing its thermal properties. It is also a safer and healthier alternative since it doesn’t include chemicals that affect the homes’ air quality. It’s flame resistant, sound isolating, non-toxic and compostable.
Like these, there are many other alternatives to conventional construction materials that can be used to develop more sustainable, responsible and ecological projects. As architects, engineers and members of the construction industries, we shall stay updated about these issues in order to continue taking care of our natural environment. YOU MUST READ Green Areas: In Search of a Synergy Between Urbanism and Nature
- “Grasscrete”, Gharpedia, https://gharpedia.com/blog/grasscrete-paving-systems-types-advantages-installation/
- “Ecofriendly building materials”, PBC Today,
https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/planning-construction-news/eco-friendly-building-materials/67408/
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