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The need for sustainable construction, coupled with the rising demand for energy-efficient buildings worldwide, is driving innovation in the smart construction materials space. Globally, many research institutes and scientists are exploring new materials that reduce carbon emissions. From Asia Pacific to North America, researchers are developing smart construction materials to drive innovation in the sector.
Another remarkable breakthrough comes from the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering in the United States, where researchers have created a chameleon-like building material capable of regulating building temperatures. This smart material can adjust its infrared colors and modulate the absorption and emission of heat, allowing it to cool or warm the building as needed, resulting in significant energy savings.
According to the researchers, the innovative solution can emit up to 92% of the infrared heat it contains. This allows the material to cool the inside of the building, resulting in saved energy. On cold days, the material emits only 7% of its infrared heat, which means that it can also keep the building warm. It is worth noting that the smart material comprises a layer that can incorporate solid copper, which retains a significant amount of infrared heat. Alternatively, the layer can contain a watery solution that emits infrared.
Furthermore, innovative startups are also emerging in the space, seeking to tap into the high-growth potential of the sector.
The smart sensor technology will enable GreenVibe to collect data about concrete composition. The collected data will assist engineers and developers to take informed decisions. While the Israel-based firm is not the only player in the segment, the solution offered by the firm is gaining rapid ground among construction firms due to the simplified nature of its offerings.
In the United Kingdom too, innovative smart construction material-focused startups have emerged over the last few years. To further their research and development works and to launch innovative self-healing products in the market, these firms are attracting government grants and private funding.
With this funding, Mimicrete is well-positioned to drive its research and development plans. Furthermore, the funding will also assist the firm to speed up its commercialization plans. In June 2022, the company announced the launch of its first commercial pilot program in partnership with JP Concrete. The project with JP Concrete is focused on advancing the development of Mimicrete's self-healing concrete product.
As sustainable construction practices continue to gain importance, these innovations in smart construction materials offer immense value by reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the overall quality and longevity of buildings. With ongoing research and increasing investments, the future of smart construction materials looks promising, paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced construction industry worldwide.
