The University of Toledo
Capacity Building in Construction Program
 

EACT Database

EACT Incubator

Sustainable Energy Efficiency

Sustainable Community Development

Sustainable Economic Development

Sustainable Technology Preparedness

Scott Park Campus
University College                       Division of Comm. & Economic Dev.
Phone: 419.530.3016
Fax: 419.530.6228
CBEmergingTech@utoledo.edu

SMART BUILDING MATERIALS

Overview Insight Database Applications Comparison Case Studies References

COMPARISON

No.

Equipment

From

To

1

Composites

Steel, fiberglass and other similar materials used as reinforcement that requires costly construction techniques.

Short wire reinforced concrete compatible with standard construction processes and the steel used for reinforcement being relatively cheap

2

Integrated PV Modules

PV modules that are mounted above the roof on racks giving an attractive curb appeal.

PV modules integrated into roofing materials which makes  it difficult to be noticed on roof but has the benefits such as production of free electricity using sunlight and protection of homes from storm and rainy weather

3

Green Roofs

Traditional structural roof components comprised of tile, wood, ceramic or slate shingles

Multi-beneficial vegetated roof cover as structural components that helps to mitigate the effect of urbanization on water quality by filtering, absorbing or detaining rainfall

4

Cement Substitute

Cement that uses a great deal of energy as an costly admixture in concrete mixes used in construction

A substitute of cement made from waste products saving energy improving the quality of concrete and reducing cost

5

Pumice-crete

Conventional building methods and materials providing only structural strength

Low density and energy efficient concrete as an economic alternative to regular concrete providing insulation with durable, fireproof and noise-resistant material that can be used in a variety of climates

6

Smart bricks

Regular brick blocks used as building material in construction

Bricks stuffed with sensors, signal processors and wireless communication links warning about hidden stresses, or damage in the aftermath of natural calamities like earthquakes, storms or hurricanes

 

7

Automatic shutoff valves

Commonly available valves and pipe fittings that cause frequent leakages and bursting problems leading to flood and damage in homes

Automatic shutoff valves containing sensors that cut off water flow in the event of leak thereby preventing flooding and consequent damages

8

Smart windows

Standard windows inefficient to retain heat in winter or deflect heat in summer

Smart windows that provide increased comfort, light and decrease in condensation offering higher potential to recover installation costs saving energy both in summer and winter.

Page update: Friday, July 21, 2006