Emergence of new construction technologies: Adding pace & durability while promoting sustainability

By: Amit Jain, Director, Mahagun Group

Buildings that care are more than just structures that provide shelter and space. They are designed with innovative and sustainable construction technologies that add pace and durability to building processes and promote environmental sustainability. The construction industry has seen a significant shift towards embracing new technologies prioritising sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The industry is evolving from pre-fabrication technologies to precast construction methods to meet the demands of a more sustainable future.

The construction industry has come a long way in the last decade, with innovative designs and sustainability practices shaping buildings’ construction. From pre-fabrication technologies to precast construction, there are many ways in which the industry is evolving to meet the demands of the future.

Pre-fabrication technologies

One of the recent areas of innovation in the construction industry is pre-fabrication technologies. These technologies involve building sections of a building off-site in a factory-controlled environment before transporting them to the building site for assembly. This method reduces the need for on-site work. Therefore, it minimises the dust and pollution generated during construction. Additionally, pre-fabrication can reduce the time needed to complete a project and lower maintenance costs.

Mivan Construction Technology

Mivan Construction Technology (named after the company that developed this technology) is another example of an innovative construction approach. Mivan technology uses aluminium instead of wood for formwork, which is used to create a mould for concrete. This approach is more durable and resistant to seismic activity. It reduces construction time and cost while also delivering a smooth finish. This technology is extensively being used in India.

Precast technology

Precast technology is another method that has gained popularity in recent years. With precast technology, building components such as slabs, tiles, windows, and doors are fabricated off-site using computer-based systems. This approach helps to reduce waste, improve precision, and strengthen the building while reducing overall construction costs. Additionally, precast technology is eco-friendly and can contribute to the sustainability of the construction industry.

There are many benefits of innovative design and sustainable practices in the construction industry. They can help reduce buildings’ carbon footprint, minimise construction waste, and reduce the time and cost associated with building construction. Pre-fab structures are more sustainable, lightweight, and durable than concrete structures. They can also be built twice as fast as traditional methods, are more efficient in thermal performance, and look elegant. Further, apart from fostering innovative designs and sustainability practices, these new technologies are helping to reduce the environmental impact of construction, increase efficiency and productivity, and lower costs. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be necessary for builders and developers to embrace these new approaches and technologies to create a more sustainable future.