In the heart of Vietnam’s industrial boom, Binh Duong province is grappling with a pressing challenge: how to sustainably meet the insatiable demand for building materials. As the province urbanizes at a breakneck pace, researchers are turning their attention to non-fired building materials as a potential game-changer. A recent study published in *Tạp chí Khoa học và Công nghệ* (Journal of Science and Technology) sheds light on the factors influencing the adoption of these materials in non-mandatory construction projects, offering insights that could reshape the construction and energy sectors.
Quynh Chau Truong, lead author of the study and a researcher at The University of Danang – University of Science and Technology, explains that the province’s rapid urbanization has created a significant demand for building materials. “The government’s policy aims to promote non-fired building materials to reduce reliance on fired clay bricks,” Truong says. “However, the choice of materials in non-mandatory projects often depends on the preferences of investors, planners, and contractors.”
The study reveals that only 20-30% of civil buildings with less than nine floors, which are not subject to mandatory legal requirements, are currently built with non-fired materials. This low adoption rate presents a substantial opportunity for growth and innovation in the construction industry.
From a commercial perspective, the increased use of non-fired building materials could have significant implications for the energy sector. The production of fired clay bricks is energy-intensive, contributing to high carbon emissions. Non-fired materials, on the other hand, offer a more sustainable alternative, potentially reducing the energy sector’s carbon footprint and lowering energy costs for manufacturers.
Truong’s research identifies several factors influencing the selection of non-fired materials, including cost, availability, and awareness. “Investors and planners may be hesitant to adopt non-fired materials due to a lack of understanding about their benefits and properties,” Truong notes. “Additionally, the availability and cost of these materials can vary, affecting their appeal to investors.”
The study proposes specific solutions to promote the use of non-fired building materials in non-mandatory construction projects. These include raising awareness about the benefits of non-fired materials, providing training and support to investors and planners, and encouraging research and development to improve the quality and availability of these materials.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the findings of this study could shape future developments in the field. By promoting the use of non-fired building materials, the industry can reduce its environmental impact, lower energy costs, and support sustainable urbanization. “This research highlights the importance of addressing the factors influencing the adoption of non-fired building materials,” Truong says. “By doing so, we can promote more sustainable and efficient construction practices in Binh Duong and beyond.”
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, this research offers a timely and relevant perspective on the future of construction. As the industry grapples with the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, the insights provided by Truong and her team could prove invaluable in shaping a more sustainable and resilient built environment.