Construction materials have pretty much remained the same for ages.
Stone, wood, mud brick, and even concrete have remained the building materials of choice throughout much of history. Primitive composite materials have a long history. With the remarkable growth of technology, the use of advanced composites in construction has now become possible.
So, here’s a look at some ways companies are using advanced composites.
Advantages of Composite Materials in Construction
Construction companies are starting to make use of advanced fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) as a bold new building material. FRP composites consist of strong, reinforcing fibers embedded in a polymer resin matrix.
The resultant material is strong and lightweight. These are two factors that are perfect for creating bold and innovative new architectural forms. In short, architects have a fantastic new tool at their disposal.
Polymer composites in construction are easier to shape than traditional building materials. They’re also corrosion resistant, and have a low thermal and electrical conductance.
So there’s no end of uses for composite materials in construction. But let’s look at some ways that companies are using composites in construction right now.
1. Composite Materials in Architectural Façades
Metal composite materials have found their way into architectural cladding throughout the world. The design flexibility and environmental sustainability of these composites can only mean that their future growth as a building material is assured.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art’s upgrade has made waves in the composite world. Its ten-story façade used over 700 panels of FRP composites to create an architectural masterpiece.
2. Structural Elements Made of Composites
Composite materials are also found in the construction of load-bearing elements. For instance, basement walls.
The advantages here are obvious. First, composite walls are easier and faster to install. They also have greater insulation properties, and they’re much lighter in weight.
3. Buildings Made of Composite Materials
We’re getting to the point where entire structures are cobbled together from FRP composite materials.
This is where advanced polymer composites in construction shift the paradigm. Using FRP composites allows for modular units that are energy efficient and low cost. Affordable housing is a big concern these days. This is the kind of out-of-the-box thinking that can find new solutions to the world’s problems.
Make the Most of Composites in Construction
However you slice it, composites in construction is the future. They’re strong, and they’re the perfect material for any project. In short, there’s nothing you can’t do with composite materials.
The manufacturing of composites is becoming more efficient and less expensive. That makes these versatile materials much more attractive for the construction industry. We’ve covered a few of the ways composites are changing the construction business. There’s sure to be more to come.
Therefore, if you have a construction project that could benefit from the use of composites, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a quote.
