Smart Materials in Construction: Revolutionizing the Future of Buildings

Dr. Swati Agrawal
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil Engineering
Mail id – swati.agrawal@kalingauniversity.ac.in

The introduction of smart materials is causing a significant upheaval in the construction sector by transforming the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings. Adapting to changes in their surroundings and reacting to external stimuli like temperature, pressure, light, or moisture are characteristics of smart materials, sometimes referred to as responsive or intelligent materials. These materials can be used in the construction of more durable, sustainable, and energy-efficient buildings. Smart materials, such as energy-harvesting systems, phase-change materials, and Concrete that can cure itself has the potential to revolutionise the construction sector in the future. One of the most promising smart construction materials is self-healing concrete. The most common substance in the world, concrete is prone to deterioration and breaking over time. Self-repair however, when cracks appear, concrete may automatically mend itself. This is accomplished by incorporating capsules into the concrete mixture that contain therapeutic agents, including microorganisms or unique polymers. The healing agent is released when the capsules burst, filling the fracture and solidifying it to create an impenetrable seal. By keeping structural flaws from going undetected, this invention increases building longevity, lowers maintenance costs, and enhances building safety.
Another invention that is altering our way of life is smart glasses engage with our constructed surroundings. Smart glass, often referred to as electrochromic or switchable glass, is able to alter its transparency in reaction to temperature, light, and electrical currents. This greatly increases energy efficiency by enabling the control of heat and sunshine into a structure. In severe sunlight, smart glass can automatically darken, lowering the demand for air conditioning; in low light, it can become more transparent, lowering the requirement for artificial lighting. In addition to improving building occupant comfort, this dynamic adaptability also improves a building’s overall energy efficiency.

Future building construction is increasingly incorporating energy-harvesting elements. For example, solar energy can be captured and converted into electricity by directly integrating photovoltaic (PV) materials into building surfaces like windows or facades. These materials serve as an illustration of how intelligent technology may transform structures into energy-producing machines. Buildings can become more energy self-sufficient and less dependent on outside power sources by using PV materials. Building materials must use renewable energy technology in order to produce carbon-neutral constructions that meet international sustainability standards.
Smart materials are improving buildings’ structural resilience in addition to their durability and energy efficiency. One excellent example is shape-memory alloys (SMAs). It is possible for these metals to “remember” their former form after being distorted, and when heated, they regain their original shape. By absorbing and dissipating energy, SMAs can be utilised in bracing and joints, among other building components, to help structures withstand earthquakes in seismically active areas. Smart materials are essential for increasing resilience in the face of climate change and natural hazards because they enhance the safety and longevity of structures in regions that are susceptible to disasters.
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