The material in structural engineering is continuously evolving to determine the possibility and limitations of the designs more precisely. The urgency of providing sustainable, robust, and durable buildings has accelerated the development of new materials for better efficiency and results. Indeed, as a structural engineer, I, Soumyendu Ganguly, have always been inspired by the innovation of new materials and their positive outcomes within the industry.
Transformation into Innovation
Traditionally, the usage of concrete and steel formed the crux of most constructions, but today, requirements are compelling us to accept alternative materials that offer sustainability, low maintenance, and flexibility. Let us consider a few of the most innovative materials that will revolutionise the field of structural engineering and unlock a host of new ways toward innovation.
Self-Healing Concrete
Concrete is inevitable but is always cracked and needs a constant touch-up after some time. Bacteria or special polymers inside the concrete may self-heal if the cracks start occurring. The innovation helps extend the lifetime of any structure by cost savings due to an even more sustainable construction concept. From the perspective of an engineer, I, Soumyendu Ganguly, have always been fascinated by the efficiency of self-healing concrete and its contribution to providing long-term structural reliability.
Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRP)
CFRPs are composites that are popular materials used by many for their strength and lower weight which makes it easy to handle and transport. They were initially used in aerospace, but nowadays they are also being used in structural engineering to reinforce older buildings and retrofit without adding weight. The ideal place to use this is in the areas that experience seismic activity. Since I believe in durability and efficiency, I consider CFRPs very useful for upgrading the structural performance of existing buildings.
Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC)
It has double the strength of regular concrete and is also quite immune to environmental degradation; therefore, UHPC structures require less maintenance compared to traditional structures. According to, Soumyendu Ganguly, UHPC is preferred for projects requiring high strength along with resilience, like bridges, buildings, or marine structures.
Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) can be viewed as a modern version of the ancient building material timber. CLT is made through engineering precision by layering wood planks in alternating directions overall, creating strong, fire-resistant, and lightweight panels. From my experience as a structural engineer myself, I always prefer the use of CLT, as unlike steel and concrete, it is renewable and has a lower carbon footprint. In India, CLT can be used in constructing buildings in mountainous terrain because of its high structural strength, especially in areas of high seismic activity.
3D-Printed Building Materials
3D printing materials stormed the world of construction by providing exact application of materials with minimal waste. Building parts were now printed on a larger scale with concrete and polymer-based materials for easy speed up in construction. As a structural engineer, I believe such technologies are great alternatives for intricate designs with materials such as concrete and polymers for better precision and reduced waste.
The Future of Construction
More than anything, sustainability is one of the main concerns within the real estate industry, and in the future, smart materials, responsible for structural integrity, will focus on it. As a structural engineer, I Soumyendu Ganguly believe that prioritising material innovation should be the focus of every real estate builder. This will make materials like self-healing concrete, CFRP, UHPC, CLT, and 3D-printed components popular in the industry, and it will not only benefit the builder in streamlining the operations but also help them build durable, strong, and environmentally responsible.
Conclusion
I, Soumyendu Ganguly, founded B.S. Structural Innovation Company with an aim in providing excellent civil and structural engineering solutions. Our goal is to provide the best possible solutions within the context of ensuring functional requirements using advanced methodologies that reflect our core philosophy. We are flexible in delivering solutions irrespective of the project requirements, which means no matter where or with what materials the project will be carried out, we are efficient in providing solutions to any real estate project. Visit our website and connect with us directly for any business-related enquiries.