Innovation in sustainable construction materials and the circular economy

Abstract

Although the construction sector is typically highly conservative and risk averse, the opportunities for innovation in construction materials and related technologies have never been greater. This is being driven by factors such as the need to deliver low-carbon sustainable infrastructure, the use of materials with improved durability and performance, the opportunities to develop multi-functional and smart materials and the circular economy. However, much of the research and development reported in this area, while valuable and technically competent, is relatively incremental and limited in scope. There are of course, good reasons for this, but there is also a need for more innovative research to address some of the issues in construction and infrastructure materials. Universities are often the best place for this type of research given their opportunities to complete research with higher associated risk. This paper provides examples of innovation in construction materials that has been driven by the need to develop a circular economy. The examples are based primarily on the work of the author and associated collaborators.