1 Self-repairing concrete
Concrete is a material no construction site can do without. It has tremendous strength and the ability to withstand enormous loads. But under the influence of moisture, wind and other external factors, the monolith gradually breaks down. It would seem impossible to solve this problem. But experts from the Netherlands have developed an amazing technology, thanks to which the concrete is restored without human intervention. It literally restores itself.
How does it work? Lactic acid calcium is introduced into the concrete composition, and then it is populated with live bacteria that feed on this additive. By processing it into lime, these microorganisms seal cracks and cavities. This development is not yet widespread, but perhaps in the future it will revolutionize construction by eliminating repair work.
2 Glass Shingles.
A product made by Swiss company SolTech Energy is capable of surprising even the discerning architect. Glass tiles will be a beautiful decoration of the house, but there are real benefits from its use. This material is able to store solar energy, so even at night the surface of the roof remains warm. And this means that it does not collect snow. Whether such a solution is suitable for northern regions is debatable. But in countries with temperate climates glass shingles shows the best qualities.
On the strength of glass tiles is not inferior to ceramic tiles. And combine well with her, since the same size, thickness and shape
When laying under the tiles underlay a sheet of black nylon. When the sun heats the glass surface, it also heats the air underneath it. And this energy can be used not only for heating the roof, but also for other purposes. For example, if you lay pipes under the roof and run them through the water, the system will be an additional source of heat for the attic.
3 Smart glass
Continuing the "glass" theme, let's talk about the development that allows you to make a transparent material opaque with just a touch of your hand. This magical effect is achieved quite simply. A liquid crystal film is placed between two glass panels and electricity is passed through it. When power is applied, the crystals change course, lining up perpendicularly to the glass surface, and the glass becomes transparent. But as soon as the current is switched off, the particles resume their Brownian motion, and the material becomes turbid, becoming impervious to the eye.
Despite the conductive layer, the "smart" glass can be used in rooms with a high degree of humidity
4 Conductive concrete
Concrete has long been attempted to be made conductive, but significant progress has only recently been made. A unique development called Shotcrete belongs to scientists at the University of Nebraska. Using a special mineral (magnetite), as well as additives of metal and carbon dust, specialists have given concrete new useful properties. Now it can not only reflect but also absorb electromagnetic radiation.
The new material is designed primarily for the construction of roads, sidewalks and runways, which will not be covered with ice even in the most severe frosts. In fact, we are talking about "warm floors" of unlimited area.
Research leader - Professor Chris Tuan
5 .Wooden Nails
Metal nails, known to us since ancient times, do their job well. But you can't call it ideal. Problems arise when it is necessary to dismantle a wooden construction. We have to spend a lot of time and effort to pull the fasteners, which often bend and stick firmly. There is one more trouble - iron nails are susceptible to corrosion. As they rust, they not only deteriorate themselves, weakening the joint, but they also leave a sloppy red stain on the surface of the board.
The Beck Fastener Group's invention solves all problems at once. These are nails made of... wood, or more precisely, solid beech wood. When you disassemble a wooden structure, you don't have to pull them out - you can just saw or break them. And of course, no corrosion is out of the question.
Wooden nails are driven with a pneumatic gun. Pre-drilling is not necessary
The fasteners, called LignoLoc, have a diameter of 3.7 mm and a length of 50 to 65 mm. It is worth noting that wooden nails are inferior to metal nails in terms of strength. It is impossible to use them in capital construction. But they are excellent for interior decoration, and may also be useful in the manufacture of furniture.
