Researchers and architects around the world continue to experiment with new developments for more efficient and sustainable construction. We tell you about the latest findings in this direction, from eco-friendly concrete to technologically advanced window systems that may soon replace traditional practices and solutions in architecture.
Spiral staircase created with a 3D printer
ETH Zurich and ROK Architects
Researchers from ETH Zurich, together with ROK Architects, have developed a spiral staircase consisting of 16 precast concrete steps arranged in a spiral. The project is called Cadenza, and its innovation lies in the fact that each step is made from the same 3D-printed PET plastic mold. This reduces waste, while the dry joints that hold the elements together allow the staircase to be disassembled for reuse in another building. In addition, the printed formwork is reusable, and the steps themselves are only 20 millimeters thick. The team noted that the project demonstrates the advantages of digital tools in architecture and engineering, and the solution is ready for use in individual construction projects.
Eco-friendly concrete
Respyre
The development of the Dutch company Respyre is aimed at increasing the environmental friendliness of facades. Thus, the material of the same name is made from recycled concrete mixtures and other waste. Due to its porosity, water-holding capacity, as well as nutrients in the mixture, after hardening, its surface becomes bioreceptive, that is, creating conditions for the growth of moss. It, in turn, covers the area of the facade for a month and helps stabilize the temperature regime in the building. According to the team's idea, the material serves as a cost-effective way to integrate nature into the urban environment. The company notes that Respyre can be used both in new projects and in existing structures.
Glass panels filled with water
Water-Filled Glass
Developed by UK startup Water-Filled Glass, the glass panels contain a thin layer of water between them to help create an energy-efficient heating and cooling system for a building. The team says their technology could make heavily glazed homes more environmentally friendly, cutting energy costs by around 25% compared to standard windows. The water absorbs heat from sunlight or other radiation – such as heat escaping from a room – from the part of the light spectrum that is invisible to humans. The heated water is then pumped through sealed pipes at low pressure into cooler areas of the building, through underfloor heating or into a thermal accumulator. The water between the panes is automatically cleaned by a control system.
Architectural textiles
I-Mesh
I-Mesh is a technologically advanced and eco-friendly textile suitable for use in residential and commercial architecture. The material is created using computer design, which allows for control over the characteristics of the finished fabric. The development team also notes that the wide functional range of the material allows for the elimination of conventional structural elements, thus reducing carbon dioxide emissions. I-Mesh panels are made from several types of raw materials, including basalt fiber, carbon fiber, fiberglass, and volcanic fiber.
Building blocks from mycelium
PLP Labs
As part of their ongoing experiment, the team at PLP Labs, the research division of the British studio PLP Architecture, created objects from mycelium. The next stage of the project was to develop a modular block system that could be used in construction. The team says that mycelium demonstrates wide possibilities for use in the architectural environment due to its lightness, insulating properties and high fire resistance. In addition, the biocomposite based on it is a renewable, biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional concrete or steel. The researchers emphasize that mycelium can be grown in controlled conditions using agricultural waste such as straw, wood chips or sawdust as a substrate.
Straw and wood panels
EcoCocon
EcoCocon says it has developed a sustainable and efficient straw building system. It consists of a wood fibre outer layer, a multi-pressed straw insulation layer and a supporting frame with two posts made from sustainably managed timber. The panels are airtight and have a clay-renderable surface and are compatible with many standard interior finishes.
Comentarios