Before designing my final piece I started to look into sustainable materials to use for the construction of my building. My key concern is that they should have a minimal carbon footprint, be sustainable and if possible provide a positive impact either by conserving or even producing energy.
What I found out is that some materials, though generally considered 'sustainable', may not be in the context of my building if, for example, they would have to be shipped from overseas. This would be the case with materials such as bamboo and cork as although fast-growing, they cannot be produced locally in the UK. Other materials such as sheep's wool, although a good insulator and with a low-carbon footprint, would be a more expensive option so may not be suitable for projects on a lower budget.
Precast Concrete
I discovered that concrete is an excellent way of controlling heat within a building and is affordable as a building material, also that precast concrete slabs are more sustainable than traditional concrete, often taking much less energy to produce and assemble. Precast concrete slabs are also more durable as the manufacturing process allows the material to properly cure in a controlled environment, rather than being exposed to any variety of weather conditions while curing at a construction site. This means they are less likely to develop cracks and structural faults within the concrete leading to eventual demolitions.
Reclaimed or Recycled Steel
Steel is totally recyclable and is an excellent material for the framework of a building, giving better durability than wood against earthquakes and high winds; additionally, it is water and pest-resistant. In terms of materials, a 2,000-square foot house requires about 50 trees to build, but a frame made from recycled steel requires the steel equivalent of just six scrapped cars. Thus, it significantly reduces the ecological impact of any new construction. While the mining, heating, and shaping of products made from aluminum and steel require a lot of energy, properly and efficiently reusing or recycling them into new products, lowers the energy used, and makes the material more sustainable; the recycled metal is long-lasting and does not require frequent replacements. Due to its properties, it does warp and does not burn, making it perfect for roofing, building facades, and structural support. Additionally, recycled steel is water- and pest-resistant.
Reclaimed Wood
By choosing to use reclaimed wood we can have a positive environmental impact, not only saving the number of trees felled but by reducing the amount of timber that ends up in landfills. Reclaimed wood is good for structural framing, cabinetry, and flooring. However, as it can be susceptible to water damage, insects, and general degradation, so there are considerations to be made as each piece will need to be quality assessed to ensure suitability for the project. Also, due to the susceptibility of wood to insects and water damage, it may require additional treatment, the environmental impact of which would need to be considered.
Recycled Plastic
I was interested to find that recycled plastic and other recycled rubbish is being used to produce concrete. A blend of recycled and virgin plastic is also used to make polymeric timbers, for use in making fences, picnic tables, and other structures – I would need to do more research to find out if this was suitable for building construction. Reused plastic can also be used for cable pipes, roofs, floors, PVC manholes, and windows.
I would be able to look at recycled plastic for any piping to channel water off the roof of my building and for any plumbing.
Straw Bales
Straw Bales are plentiful as straw can be harvested and re-planted annually. They can be locally sourced and so overall have a minimal environmental impact. Straw bales have good insulation properties as well as being good for soundproofing. They can be used as a framing material as well as a fill material between columns, beams, and frameworks as they don't allow air through; surprisingly they even have some fire resistance properties.
Sheep Wool
Sheep wool is a great insulator (comparable with conventional insulation) and does not degrade nearly as quickly as other insulation materials like straw. Many traditional insulation materials are laden with chemicals so sheep wool makes a great alternative, it also requires less energy to manufacture. It is however not the most affordable insulator and has to be treated with pesticides and fungicides which might make sheep wool less eco-friendly, depending on the chemicals used.
Piezoelectric Materials
I was excited to find some recent research that showed that vibration from water droplets hitting piezoelectric materials (these produce an electric current when they are placed under stress) can generate electricity.
A recently developed droplet-based electricity generator has meant that this energy can now be harnessed. As rainwater hits the electrodes, which are coated with polytetrafluoroethylene, uninterrupted power is generated. This system can handle extreme rainfall, the charge will keep on increasing till a saturation point. This could be something I could incorporate into my design, especially on the roof of my building which would be subjected to the greatest rainfall.
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