Is “Smart Concrete” the Future of Constructing Buildings? Part 2

Imagine a future where there is no need for significant repatching or even tearing down or reconstructing structures made of concrete. Imagine a world in which the most common construction material was able to detect tension and cracking before it was even visible to an inspector and then positively react to this tension. As Jacksonville construction lawyers, we are committed to our clients’ legal needs. We are also committed to the future of the construction industry. If you have any legal questions concerning construction law, please speak with one of our Jacksonville construction attorneys today.

Although we are primarily dedicated to representing the litigation and arbitration needs of our clients, we are also intrigued by the future of the industry and what modern inventions will help us build a brave new world. One such groundbreaking achievement that may one day literally lay the foundation to our homes, roadways, and workplaces is “smart concrete.” In this two-part article, we first discussed the impressive history of concrete and the problems that the material eventually presents. In this section, we will discuss an exciting new hybrid material that may soon enter the market and positively impact the construction industry.

Smart Concrete

Many modern innovations combine a standard element with something the world hasn’t seen. It’s like taking the microwave dinner and transforming it into the fast-casual dining experience. One such innovative discovery is “composite material strain/stress sensor” or as it’s aptly nicknamed, “smart concrete.” What is smart concrete and how does it work? The much smarter science-minded people at science360.gov say that by “adding carbon fiber to concrete mixture, a slab of concrete is able to conduct electricity.” What does this mean?

The Positive Impact Smart Concrete May Create

By adding these fibers, this creates a concrete hybrid material that can “conduct electrical impulses.” This creates a sensor-like effect in which the concrete can create an “electrical resistance charge” that can detect and positively respond to any additional stress or structural damage that occurs within itself. This remarkable ability to gauge its own level of tension and react to the stress in a positive way could, hypothetically, mean that the material would not only have the electrical properties to protect itself from too much tension but could also solve serious problems in structural designs by discovering the most sensitive spots in the structure well before there are any signs of deterioration. This would assist contractors regarding the most worrisome part of their occupation.

If you would like to speak with one of our Jacksonville construction attorneys, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.