Researchers at MIT have found that natural materials like bones, shells, and sea sponges are as strong microscopically as they are to the touch.
The construction industry can learn from this.
According to the National Post, a recently published paper in the journal Construction and Building Materials examines a tough and long-lasting substance called nacre. Found inside of mollusks, nacre has a brick-like arrangement of minerals, forming a strong bond between layers.
The molecular organization of nacre contrasts from Portland concrete, a staple of construction across the world. Made of crushed rocks bounded by cement paste, concrete strength is largely based on guesswork, researchers say.
Considering this, more attention is being paid to biomimetics, the study of materials that mimic nature.
“There is a wide range of techniques that are well established for studying the complexities of biological and biomimetic materials, which can be easily translated into the cement community,” Admir Masic, an MIT professor and co-author of the study, told MIT News.
Related Stories
Wood | Apr 13, 2022
Mass timber: Multifamily’s next big building system
Mass timber construction experts offer advice on how to use prefabricated wood systems to help you reach for the heights with your next apartment or condominium project.
Sponsored | BD+C University Course | Apr 10, 2022
Designing with commercial and industrial insulated metal wall panels
Discover the characteristics, benefits and design options for commercial/industrial buildings using insulated metal panels (IMPs). Recognize the factors affecting panel spans and the relationship of these to structural supports. Gain knowledge of IMP code compliance.
Building Materials | Feb 17, 2022
3D-printed megapanels, unitized window-wall assemblies now available from Sto Corp.
Panel manufacturer is collaborating with Branch Technology and Kawneer North America on prefabrication solutions for building facades.
3D Printing | Jan 12, 2022
Using 3D-printed molds to create unitized window forms
COOKFOX designer Pam Campbell and Gate Precast's Mo Wright discuss the use of 3D-printed molds from Oak Ridge National Lab to create unitized window panels for One South First, a residential-commercial high-rise in Brooklyn, N.Y.
Building Materials | Nov 29, 2021
Daltile expands its Unity Collection of porcelain tiles with a new color
Addition of "Taupe" gives Daltile's Unity Collection three warm and three cool colors.
Urban Planning | Nov 11, 2021
Reimagining the concrete and steel jungle, SOM sees buildings that absorb more carbon than they emit
The firm presented its case for a cleaner built environment during the Climate Change conference in Scotland.
Sustainability | Oct 28, 2021
Reducing embodied carbon in construction, with sustainability leader Sarah King
Sustainability leader Sarah King explains how developers and contractors can use the new EC3 software tool to reduce embodied carbon in their buildings.
Sponsored | Glass and Glazing | Oct 1, 2021
Specifying Responsibly to Save Birds’ Lives
Realizing sustainable, bird-friendly glass design
Sponsored | Glass and Glazing | Oct 1, 2021
Seizing the Daylight with BIPV Glass
Glass has always been an idea generator. Now, it’s also a clean energy generator.
