In the quest for sustainable construction, a recent study published in *Applied Sciences* (translated from Romanian as *Științe Aplicate*) is making waves by exploring how thin, curved structures like domes and vaults can revolutionize material efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Led by Cristina Veres from the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management at George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu-Mures, Romania, the research delves into the buckling behavior and design strategies of shell structures, offering insights that could reshape the energy sector’s approach to construction.
Shell structures, known for their strength and stability, achieve these properties through membrane action, allowing significant material savings. “Their sustainability lies in minimizing embodied energy and CO₂ emissions by using less material, integrating recycled or bio-based components, and applying optimization strategies to extend service life and enable reuse or recycling,” Veres explains. This review critically examines the state-of-the-art in sustainable shell structures, focusing on their buckling behavior and material-efficient design strategies.
The study integrates bibliometric analysis with thematic synthesis to identify key research trends, theoretical advancements, and optimization tools that support structural efficiency. Veres emphasizes recent developments in composite and bio-based materials, imperfection-sensitive buckling models, and performance-based design approaches. “Advanced computational methods, including finite element analysis, machine learning, and digital twins, are highlighted as critical in enhancing predictive accuracy and sustainability outcomes,” she notes.
The findings underscore the dual challenge of achieving both structural stability and environmental responsibility. By outlining research gaps and future directions, the study points toward resilient, low-impact shell construction. This research could significantly impact the energy sector, where sustainable construction is increasingly prioritized. As the industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, the insights from this study offer practical strategies for designing and building structures that are both efficient and environmentally friendly.
Veres’s work not only advances the scientific understanding of shell structures but also provides a roadmap for future developments in sustainable construction. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the integration of these innovative design strategies could lead to more resilient and eco-friendly infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a greener future.