German architecture studio Henn works in collaboration with the Technical University of Dresden to design the Cube, which is the world's first building that is made from carbon concrete. This is a form of concrete that is supported by carbon fiber rather than steel. The building is made as a test of the new material and will also function as a lab and event space for the school grounds.
The feature is thin and twisting which is also much lighter and stronger than traditional concrete. Giovanni Betti, the head of sustainability at the studio notes that "Carbon fibre is four times lighter and six times stronger than steel and is not subject to corrosion. This means that the reinforcement does not have to be encapsulated in as much concrete to protect it from water and a same-sized section will be able to carry a higher load."
Carbon Concrete Cubic Buildings
Henn and the Technical University of Dresden Design the Cube
Trend Themes
1. Carbon-concrete Composites - Innovative use of carbon-fiber to create a novel composite building material
2. Lighter and Stronger Architecture - Building materials with improved strength and lower weight can change the dynamics of construction
3. Sustainable Construction Materials - Adoption of alternative building materials can reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry
Industry Implications
1. Construction - The construction industry can leverage carbon fibre to develop new innovative and more sustainable materials
2. Engineering - Engineers can use new materials like carbon concrete composites to design and deliver innovative and more efficient architectures
3. Materials Science - Exploring the potential of carbon-fiber composites in building materials and construction can lead to new forms of disruption