These Unique Bricks Offer Reliable Insulation and Load-Bearing
Rahul Kalvapalle — April 21, 2023 — Art & Design
References: empa.ch & news.europawire.eu
A team of scientists and innovators from the Empa research collective over in Switzerland have developed high-tech glass bricks that are designed to be able to combine the twin benefits of being able to welcome ample sunlight into constructed spaces whilst also offering quality insulation and reliable ability to bear weight.
These bricks were constructed by packing the glass brick exteriors with silica aerogel granules that happen to be translucent and are connected using epoxy resin. This structure allows for the fully sealed brick to still be translucent and allow sunlight in whilst also offering privacy to those inside the building. What's more, these bricks also offer excellent insulation capabilities, the likes of which are typically not associated with glass bricks.
Image Credit: Empa
These bricks were constructed by packing the glass brick exteriors with silica aerogel granules that happen to be translucent and are connected using epoxy resin. This structure allows for the fully sealed brick to still be translucent and allow sunlight in whilst also offering privacy to those inside the building. What's more, these bricks also offer excellent insulation capabilities, the likes of which are typically not associated with glass bricks.
Image Credit: Empa
Trend Themes
1. Translucent Insulation - Opportunity for building materials companies to develop innovative translucent insulation solutions for sustainable architecture and energy-efficient buildings.
2. Smart Glass - Opportunity for glass manufacturers to develop smart glass panels that can switch between opaque and transparent states for energy savings and privacy.
3. Aerogel Integration - Opportunity for aerogel technology providers to collaborate with building materials companies to develop more efficient and sustainable building materials for insulation and load-bearing.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - The construction industry can adopt these translucent glass bricks to create buildings that offer both natural light and insulation, leading to energy-efficient and sustainable structures.
2. Architecture - Architects can incorporate these translucent glass bricks into their designs, offering a unique and functional way to allow natural light while still providing privacy and insulation in their structures.
3. Glass Manufacturing - Glass manufacturers can explore innovative techniques such as aerogel integration and smart glass technology to create sustainable and energy-efficient glass products for the construction and architecture industries.
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