Innovative materials reshaping the construction sector

Sanjeev Agarwal, Chief Design Officer, Ashwin Sheth Group

Among the many innovations that have swept the real estate sector in recent years, advancements in construction materials are perhaps among the most significant. Beyond aesthetics, the choice of materials is a crucial factor underpinning any construction's structural integrity and functionality.

The rise of advanced synthetic materials, which are lighter, stronger, and environmentally friendlier compared to conventional building materials, has ushered in a new era of real estate projects that prioritize energy efficiency, longevity, and sustainability. Let us examine a few innovative materials that exhibit significant potential in enhancing both the visual appeal and functionality of modern constructions.

Carbon fibre

Carbon fibre has long been used in the manufacture of sporting equipment and is now increasingly being leveraged in building projects. As much as 75% lighter than iron and 30% lighter than aluminium, carbon fibre offers the combination of strength and lightness that the construction sector demands. It can be used to reinforce the strength of traditional building materials, including bricks, wooden structures and concrete blocks. By reducing the thickness of panels, carbon fibre can lower their weight. Additionally, the use of carbon fibre reinforcement enhances the thermal insulation of buildings significantly. 

Self-healing concrete

The concept of ‘self-healing concrete’ originated at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. The Dutch civil engineer Dr. Schlangen developed a process whereby concrete is exposed to heat, causing it to melt and reform as it cools down. Microbiologist Hendrick Jonkers, on the other hand, created a self-regenerative bio-concrete. This concrete is infused with bacteria and calcium lactate placed in biodegradable capsules such that in the event of a crack, water splits open the capsules, enabling the bacteria to feed on the lactate and form limestone that heals the crack. Another technique developed by Korean researchers involves the addition of polymer capsules to the concrete, which, under the influence of moisture and sunlight, react and swell, filling up cracks. While traditional concrete is a well-established and reliable construction material, the use of self-healing concrete safeguards against cracks that might otherwise compromise the structure. Self-healing concrete demonstrates the potential to extend the life of concrete structures and reduce the need for regular maintenance, resulting in substantial long-term cost and time savings.

Transparent aluminium

In simple terms, transparent aluminium can be defined as a see-through ceramic made from aluminium oxynitride (AION). Scratch resistance and durability are among the key attributes of this material. Transparent aluminium is far more durable than quartz, 85% harder than sapphire, and can withstand heat up to 2,100⁰C. Further, it demonstrates resistance to acids, alkalis, radiation and water. Transparent aluminium has seen application in the military as well as in the optics industry. In the construction domain, it is primarily utilized for elements that require transparency and strength, such as domes or impact-resistant windows.

Photovoltaic glass

Amidst a greater push towards sustainability in real estate, photovoltaic glass has emerged as a significant innovation. Integrated photovoltaic glazing (BIPV) enables buildings to generate their electricity by essentially turning them into one giant solar panel. Amorphous silicon glass and crystalline silicon glass are the two primary types of photovoltaic glass, both capable of generating clean energy. However, they are best suited for different environmental conditions and placement scenarios. Amorphous silicon glass works best during overcast weather or diffuse lighting conditions and lets in around 30% of light. On the other hand, crystalline silicon glass proves to be the superior option for structures exposed to direct sunlight, offering the capability to generate double the amount of power.

Liquid granite

Liquid granite, or artificial ‘liquid’ stone, is a construction mixture that is sprayed onto concrete, brickwork, asphalt and other surfaces, where it congeals to form a tight seal that elevates the durability and aesthetics of the surface. Comprising safe resins, natural marble chips, and mineral fillers, liquid granite is an environmentally friendly material, comprising 30-70% recycled material and consuming around a third of cement as compared to precast concrete. Additionally, the material has a low carbon impact and is fire resistant, with the ability to withstand temperatures of up to 1,100⁰C while maintaining structural integrity. In the construction sector, liquid granite is often used for the manufacture or coating of interior elements or individual structures.

The aforementioned materials are just a glimpse of the massive developments shaping the future of construction. Innovative materials, coupled with technology-driven advancements in design, will serve as the bulwark of a forward-looking real estate sector in the years ahead.