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Welcome to the October edition of theNBS.com eNewsletter
A key part of design is the specification of appropriate products and materials. In this month's NBS eNewsletter, we take a look at construction products, from manufacturers' product details, to cutting-edge research developments in nanotechnology and self-healing materials. There are also video clips on the impact of sulfate in concrete on floor slabs and on the complexities of specifying deleterious materials, and a look at the correct way to use vapour permeable underlays.
Nanotechnology in construction
Nanotechnology is possibly the next big thing, but what does it have to do with construction? Industry proponents say that nanotechnology will have a giant effect on building, gaining better performance from existing products at lower cost and creating new and novel applications, from self cleaning roads and fabrics to electricity generating coatings and other even more exotic products.
Nanoparticle risk management
The very small size of engineered nanoparticles, less than 100 nanometres (nm) in diameter, confers unique properties not found in larger products composed of the same chemicals. Many universities and research teams in industry are already working on the design of new applications, or have already incorporated nanoparticles into processes aimed at improving their products' performance. But how safe are they?
Self-healing building products
The development of new materials and intensive research into existing ones is leading to a range of exciting applications that could have a significant impact on construction products. The introduction of self-healing materials could mean safer and more durable products, and considerable cost savings.
Video clip – Sulfate and concrete
Whether the ground floor of a house is suspended or filled, it will include either a solid slab or an oversite layer of concrete laid on compacted hardcore directly on the ground. Both hardcore and soil are potential sources of sulfates and other chemicals harmful to concrete.
Product specifications and project specifications
Richard Teale, NBS Chief Editor, recently gave a presentation to the Chartered Institute of Marketing Construction Industry Group (CIMCIG). The theme was that proprietary specification starts with the product manufacturer providing clear, concise product details that target the specifier's requirements, and which can be confidently integrated into the project specification.
Video clip – Material risks
Some materials once considered deleterious have now been given a new lease of life due to advances in technology and new production methods. This increases the choice available to specifiers and makes product selection more complex.
Vapour permeable underlays for slate and tile roofing
Roofing underlays are typically positioned over the roofing structure, i.e. rafters and sarking boarding, and below the slating or tiling. Traditionally, impermeable, reinforced bitumen membranes were specified as underlays. However, the introduction of lightweight, vapour permeable plastics membranes has caused some confusion; in particular in the need for any associated ventilation to roof voids.
Recommended reading from RIBA Bookshops
Concrete Elegance Series 4-Pack – The Concrete Elegance series aims to renew an interest in the potential of concrete in all its many forms and expressions, and to inspire the architect and engineer to learn more about the ways in which concrete can be used to achieve elegant and innovative designs.
Also from RIBA Bookshops:
Materiology – A book intended for all creative professionals who rely on materials and technologies – architects, designers, stylists, artists and the like, from students to experienced practitioners – Materiology is written in a style that conveys a wealth of information in a language that's easy to understand. This book covers everything you always wanted to know about materials and technologies but never expected to find in a single volume.
Glass in Building: Principles Applications Examples – Glass in Building opens up a whole range of fascinating design possibilities for the planning architect. Glass has long served as a translucent room closing element, but its range of possible uses is actually much wider. It not only offers protection against the external world, for example, noise or fire; despite its apparent fragility, it can even take on load-bearing functions in supporting structures.
ETFE: Technology & Design – ETFE foil has recently become an important material for the cladding of technologically sophisticated and innovative buildings. This material is very thin and lightweight and, when used in air-filled cushion assemblies, has enormous strength and a range of adaptive environmental attributes.
All books listed above are available to order from www.ribabookshops.com, from the mail order department: +44 (0) 207 256 7222 and from RIBA Bookshops in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool.
Recommended websites
British Board of Agrément (BBA)
The BBA is partnered with Government, and which has been providing authoritative and independent information on the performance of building products for over 30 years.
CIRIA
CIRIA's mission is to improve the performance of all concerned with construction and the environment by creating, sharing, and supporting the application of information and knowledge.
RIBA Product Selector
RIBA Product Selector is a definitive resource to research, find and select construction product and service information for all types of building design projects.
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As of November 2008,