Tomorrow’s Materials Revolutionizing Construction Today

The construction industry is ever-changing, thanks to new technologies and innovations. Here are the up-and-coming materials that will change the way we build.

Biogenic Building Materials

One of the hottest buzzwords in the construction industry in 2023 was ‘sustainability.’ Sustainability is code for eco-friendly or green construction, which will be the trend for the foreseeable future.

There are many techniques contractors and building designers can use to make structures more environmentally friendly, including biogenic building materials.

Biogenic buildings refer to structures constructed with materials from once-living organisms. Common materials include bamboo, wood, straw, and other plant-based substances. These materials are renewable and crucial in helping create carbon-neutral buildings. According to Architecture 2030:

The urban building environment is responsible for 75% of annual global GHG emissions; buildings alone account for 38%. It’s crucial to eliminate these emissions as much as possible to address climate change and meet targets put forth by the Paris Climate Agreement.

To accomplish this, Architecture 2030 issued the 2030 Challenge to make new buildings, developments, and major renovations less reliant on fossil fuels and to reduce their overall carbon emissions. This challenge, combined with government incentives, means green construction will be a significant driver in the industry for years.

Nanotechnology

Until recently, nanotechnology was something you’d read about in science fiction. However, nanotechnology is revolutionizing the construction industry, and here’s how.

Strengthening Materials

Introducing nanoparticles into building materials like cement, concrete, or glass can significantly enhance their strength and durability. For example, builders can add carbon nanotubes to concrete to increase its compressive strength up to 70%.

Self Healing

Nanotechnology can also be used to create self-healing materials capable of automatically repairing cracks and minor damage. This technology detects defects and releases healing agents to fix the damage, prolonging a building’s lifespan and reducing repair costs.

Energy Efficiency

To reach carbon emissions goals, buildings must be as energy efficient as possible, and nanotechnology can play a significant role in achieving this. For example, nanoparticles incorporated into certain building materials, like glass, allow for better light and insulation management, reducing energy consumption.

Improved Aesthetics

Finally, nanotechnology allows you to manipulate textures, colors, and patterns to create more pleasing and unique looks.

Richlite

Staying on the sustainable bandwagon, Richlite is a material worth looking into. Richlite is an extremely durable material with high impact resistance and flexural strength. Unlike other building materials, Richlite is sustainable and made from 100% recycled paper. Richlite is an eco-friendly alternative to exterior wall paneling or wood and can withstand the elements with little to no maintenance.

Prefabricated Materials

Incorporating prefabricated materials is another way architects and constructors can build more sustainable structures. Using prefabricated materials increases efficiency, reduces labor costs, and aligns with green and sustainable initiatives.

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You can find our work in major theme resort attractions in the Orlando area and in the hospitality, education, retail, and entertainment sectors.