The Industrialisation of Sustainable Construction: A Transdisciplinary Approach to the Large-Scale Introduction of Compacted Mineral Mixtures (CMMs) into Building Construction

Michael Max Bühler (), Pia Hollenbach, Alexander Michalski, Sonja Meyer, Emanuel Birle, Rebecca Off, Christina Lang, Wolfram Schmidt, Roberto Cudmani, Oliver Fritz, Guido Baltes and Geraldine Kortmann
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Michael Max Bühler: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Pia Hollenbach: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Alexander Michalski: Faculty of Civil Engineering, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Sonja Meyer: Faculty of Computer Science, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Emanuel Birle: Center of Geotechnics, Technical University Munich, 80333 Munich, Germany
Rebecca Off: Institute for Strategic Innovation and Technology Management, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Christina Lang: Institute for Strategic Innovation and Technology Management, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Wolfram Schmidt: Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), 12489 Berlin, Germany
Roberto Cudmani: Center of Geotechnics, Technical University Munich, 80333 Munich, Germany
Oliver Fritz: Faculty of Architecture, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Guido Baltes: Institute for Strategic Innovation and Technology Management, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Geraldine Kortmann: Institute for Applied Sciences, Konstanz University of Applied Sciences (HTWG), 78462 Konstanz, Germany

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 13, 1-25

Abstract: Increasing demand for sustainable, resilient, and low-carbon construction materials has highlighted the potential of Compacted Mineral Mixtures (CMMs), which are formulated from various soil types (sand, silt, clay) and recycled mineral waste. This paper presents a comprehensive inter- and transdisciplinary research concept that aims to industrialise and scale up the adoption of CMM-based construction materials and methods, thereby accelerating the construction industry’s systemic transition towards carbon neutrality. By drawing upon the latest advances in soil mechanics, rheology, and automation, we propose the development of a robust material properties database to inform the design and application of CMM-based materials, taking into account their complex, time-dependent behaviour. Advanced soil mechanical tests would be utilised to ensure optimal performance under various loading and ageing conditions. This research has also recognised the importance of context-specific strategies for CMM adoption. We have explored the implications and limitations of implementing the proposed framework in developing countries, particularly where resources may be constrained. We aim to shed light on socio-economic and regulatory aspects that could influence the adoption of these sustainable construction methods. The proposed concept explores how the automated production of CMM-based wall elements can become a fast, competitive, emission-free, and recyclable alternative to traditional masonry and concrete construction techniques. We advocate for the integration of open-source digital platform technologies to enhance data accessibility, processing, and knowledge acquisition; to boost confidence in CMM-based technologies; and to catalyse their widespread adoption. We believe that the transformative potential of this research necessitates a blend of basic and applied investigation using a comprehensive, holistic, and transfer-oriented methodology. Thus, this paper serves to highlight the viability and multiple benefits of CMMs in construction, emphasising their pivotal role in advancing sustainable development and resilience in the built environment.

Keywords: decarbonisation; circular economy; recycled materials; demolition wastes; low-carbon construction; building with earth; compressed earth; rammed earth; sustainable construction (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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