The construction industry has experienced significant turbulence in recent years, due to a range of factors that have created uncertainty and challenges for businesses. One of the biggest challenges has been the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted supply chains, caused project delays, and led to workforce shortages. This has made it difficult for businesses to plan and execute projects, leading to increased costs and reduced productivity.
In addition to the pandemic, the construction industry has also been affected by ongoing economic and political uncertainty, including Brexit in the UK, and trade tensions between the US and China. These factors have contributed to a volatile business environment, with fluctuating demand, increased competition, and pressure to cut costs and improve efficiency.
One of the most exciting areas of innovation in construction is the development of new materials. From advanced composites to biodegradable plastics, these materials offer a range of benefits, including increased strength, durability, and sustainability.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the innovative construction materials that are set to make waves in the industry in the coming year. We will look at the key developments that are likely to improve productivity and lower costs and consider how these materials can be used to create more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective buildings. Whether you are a business owner, house builder, director, or site manager, this blog post will provide valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in the construction industry.
Cross-laminated timber (CLT)
Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional building materials like concrete and steel. It is made by layering wood panels on top of each other in alternating directions, which creates a strong and stable structure. CLT is lightweight, making it easier to transport and assemble on-site. It also has good thermal properties, helping to keep buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer. As a result, it is becoming increasingly popular for both residential and commercial projects.
Smart concrete
Smart Concrete is an innovative material which is embedded with sensors that can detect changes in temperature, strain and pressure. These sensors can be used to monitor the structural integrity of a building, alerting engineers to any potential issues before they become a major problem. This can help to prevent costly repairs and improve safety on construction sites. Smart Concrete is also more durable than traditional concrete, meaning that it can last for longer and require less maintenance.
Transparent aluminium
Transparent Aluminium is a relatively new material that is being developed for use in the construction industry. It is a type of ceramic material that is transparent and has high strength and durability. This makes it ideal for use in windows and other transparent structures. Transparent Aluminium is also a good insulator, which can help to reduce energy costs in buildings.
Self-healing concrete
Self-Healing Concrete is a type of concrete that can repair itself if it becomes cracked or damaged. It contains bacteria that produce calcite when they encounter water and oxygen. This calcite fills in any cracks in the concrete, making it stronger and more durable. Self-Healing Concrete can help to reduce the need for repairs and maintenance, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Aerogel insulation
Aerogel insulation is a lightweight and highly effective material for insulating buildings. It is the hardest and lightest material in the world, made of 99.8% air. Aerogel has an extremely low thermal conductivity, meaning it is an effective insulator that can help to reduce energy costs. It is also fire-resistant and has good soundproofing properties.
High-strength fibre reinforced concrete (HSFRC)
HSFRC is a type of concrete that is reinforced with fibres, making it stronger and more durable than traditional concrete. It can withstand higher levels of stress and strain, making it ideal for use in structures that are subject to heavy loads or frequent vibrations. HSFRC can be used to create thinner and lighter structures, which can reduce material and construction costs.
Graphene-enhanced materials
Graphene is a highly conductive material that can be added to other materials to improve their strength and durability. It can be used in a wide range of applications, from reinforcing concrete to creating stronger and lighter building materials. Graphene-enhanced materials have the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, making structures stronger, more durable, and longer-lasting.
Bioplastics
Bioplastics are a type of plastic made from renewable resources like corn-starch, sugarcane, and potato starch. They are biodegradable and can be used as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics in construction. Bioplastics can be used in a variety of applications, from creating insulation materials to producing 3D printing filaments.
SlickStock and ProcureSite
As a national supplier of construction, engineering, mechanical, and electrical products, FixFirm has been at the forefront of the industry's move towards greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. The company has developed several cutting-edge technologies and platforms that are designed to streamline the procurement process and make it easier for businesses to find and purchase the materials they need.
One of FixFirm's flagship products is SlickStock, a cloud-based inventory management system that enables businesses to track their stock levels, orders, and deliveries in real time. SlickStock provides an easy-to-use interface that allows businesses to manage multiple locations, set reorder points, and receive alerts when stock levels are running low. This helps businesses to reduce waste, optimise their inventory, and ensure that they always have the materials they need on hand.
FixFirm has also pioneered ProcureSite, a state-of-the-art procurement platform that offers a streamlined, user-friendly interface, allowing businesses to search for products, compare prices, and place orders quickly and easily. The platform also offers advanced reporting and analytics tools, which allow businesses to track their procurement activities, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
At Fix Firm, we are committed to providing businesses with the products and services they need to stay ahead of the curve in the construction industry. With our cutting-edge technologies like SlickStock and ProcureSite, we are helping businesses to optimise their inventory, streamline their procurement processes, and stay on top of the latest trends and innovations.
To find out more about us, or to get in touch, please CLICK HERE.
