Thought you seen all there is to see in the building world? Like traditional factories with OPC UA, edge computing, and cobots, the construction world is taking the first steps towards a renaissance. Developed in Germany, with the aim of integrating buildings with the environment in a sustainable way, bio-construction is presented as one of the new opportunities for engineering and architecture.
Bio-construction is a science of building that optimises the use of resources depending on the context, based on four concepts:
For the structure of the building, ceramic blocks and bricks, earth, wood, stone, and straw are usually used; all extracted and previously treated in a sustainable manner. The choice of materials varies, as we have already mentioned, depending on the environment.
One of the most important aspects in bio-construction is insulation using natural materials: cork, cellulose, vegetable fibres, etc. Exterior and interior walls (lime mortar, natural plaster, clay...), windows, doors, beams, and the paints and varnishes are also made with natural products that have been treated in an ecological way and are not harmful nor emit toxic gases. All wood resources must come from controlled felling that is environmentally friendly.
Bio-construction has not stopped growing in recent years. Its personalised design, the distribution of spaces aimed at optimising energy consumption and the use of natural resources make it an attractive trend for builders of houses, rural guesthouses, and hotels. Some companies have even implemented this type of building already, such as the Torre Iberdrola in Bilbao, or the Fundación Antonino y Cinia in León.
In 2020, the green building materials industry reached a value of 299 billion dollars, and all data identifies it as a rising trend. If you are an engineer, and you are passionate about construction, materials and ecology, this is one of the many opportunities that can turn your professional career around. Don't hesitate, go for it - with BETWEEN!