The Future is Biodegradable

Development of Bio-fabricated Materials in the Construction Industry

Hy-Fi, Queen, NY, The Living, 2014 (http://www.thelivingnewyork.com)

Wouldn't it be nice if your concrete structure never cracked?

Concrete is one of the most trusted and adaptable material inputs used in construction.  Despite being considered a very durable and strong material, it is highly prone to cracking and erosion. Such limitations see that concrete is in fact not as a resilient material as first assumed. Generally, concrete structures are designed to allow small cracks which are considered to not be too detrimental to the building. But when these crevices become bigger, we start to see problems.  Cracks in the structure create a path for potentially harmful substances to attack the concrete. As these substances reach the reinforcement it begins to corrode it, increasing the chances for structural failure.

So is there a way to increase the lifespan of concrete, preventing corrosion and making it more sustainable and resilient?

Reducing the Heat Island

How Grasscrete is Reducing the Heat Island Effect

Partially Concealed and Stone Filled Mix (http://www.sustainablepavingsystems.com)

Recycled Architecture

Sustainable Design Through Recycling

 In the ever evolving field of architectural design, new and exciting materials are being created in order to reduce the energy used by a building but not limit their ability to considerably heat or cool a building.