In the heart of Barcelona, a revolutionary approach to construction is taking shape, quite literally. Maite Bravo, a researcher at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC), is pushing the boundaries of earth architecture with a novel technique called “bioshotcrete.” This isn’t your average concrete spray; it’s a sustainable, robotic-driven process that could reshape how we build, particularly in the energy sector.
Traditional earth architecture is labor-intensive, often involving manual layering of clay mixes over formwork. Bravo’s research, published in the journal ‘Temes de Disseny’ (Design Issues), introduces a digital fabrication process that minimizes manual labor and formwork use. The key? Robots and drones.
Imagine a robotic arm or a drone, precision tools in hand, spraying layers of natural clay mixes onto a temporary, lightweight formwork. This is bioshotcrete in action. The process is not just about speeding up construction; it’s about creating sustainable, large-scale earthen envelopes that could revolutionize energy-efficient building design.
“Bioshotcrete is not just about reformulating the use of clay,” Bravo explains. “It’s about implementing robotic fabrication processes that can reach new heights, both literally and metaphorically.”
The research involves two case studies, each exploring different robotic techniques. One uses a robotic arm, the other a drone. Both aim to address challenges like reach distances and machine weight, crucial factors for on-site construction. The drone, for instance, uses its helicopter blades to create drafts that aid in the drying process of each clay layer.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. Earthen envelopes, with their excellent thermal mass properties, can help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. This could lead to substantial energy savings and lower carbon emissions.
But the potential doesn’t stop at energy efficiency. Bioshotcrete could also reduce construction waste and labor costs, making it an attractive option for large-scale projects. Moreover, the use of natural, locally sourced materials could stimulate local economies and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.
Bravo’s work is still in its experimental phase, but the results so far are promising. The next steps involve further refining the material formulation, robotic tooling strategies, and customizing robotic actions for different construction scenarios.
As we look to the future, bioshotcrete could be a game-changer. It’s not just about building structures; it’s about building sustainably, efficiently, and innovatively. And with researchers like Bravo at the helm, the future of construction looks greener and smarter.