MODULE 3

Sustainable methods & technologies–Eco friendly and low cost techniques - Different substitute
for wall construction - Flemish Bond - Rat Trap Bond – Arches – Panels - Cavity Wall - Ferro
Cement and Ferro Concrete constructions – different pre cast members using these materials -
Alternate roofing systems

SUSTAINABLE METHODS & TECHNOLOGIES

Eco friendly and low cost techniques

There are several eco-friendly and low-cost techniques for construction that can help reduce the
environmental impact of building projects while saving money. Here are a few examples:

● Use locally sourced and sustainable building materials such as bamboo, straw bales, and
recycled materials to reduce transportation emissions and conserve natural resources.
● Incorporate passive solar design strategies such as south-facing windows, thermal mass,
and shading to reduce the need for heating and cooling systems.
● Install energy-efficient insulation and windows to reduce energy consumption and improve
indoor air quality.
● Use rainwater harvesting systems and graywater recycling to reduce water consumption
and lower water bills.
● Choose low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and finishes to improve indoor air
quality and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
● Opt for modular or prefabricated construction techniques to reduce waste and save time
and money.
● Plan for deconstruction and reuse of materials at the end of the building's life cycle to
reduce waste and promote circular economy principles.

Different substitutes for wall construction

There are many alternative materials that can be used for wall construction, depending on the
specific needs and requirements of the project. Here are a few examples:
 1. Structural insulated panels (SIPs) - These are prefabricated panels made of foam insulation
sandwiched between two sheets of OSB or plywood. SIPs offer high insulation value and
are easy to install.
2. Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) - These are prefabricated blocks made of foam insulation
that are filled with concrete. ICFs provide excellent insulation and can be used for both
load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls.
3. Rammed earth - This is a building technique in which moist soil is compacted into a
formwork to create a solid wall. Rammed earth walls provide good thermal mass and
insulation, and can be visually appealing.
4. Straw bales - These are compressed bales of straw that are stacked to form a wall, then
plastered with clay or lime to create a durable finish. Straw bale walls provide good
insulation and can be cost-effective.
5. Timber frame - This is a construction technique in which a frame of wooden posts and
beams is used to support the structure of the building. Timber frame walls can be filled
with insulation and finished with a variety of materials, including wood, plaster, and stone.
6. Ferrocement - This is a construction material made of cement mortar and small diameter
steel wires or mesh. Ferrocement can be used to create thin, lightweight walls that are
durable and resistant to weather and other environmental factors.
The choice of wall construction material will depend on various factors such as cost, durability,
energy efficiency, ease of installation, and aesthetic preferences. It is important to consult with a
qualified professional to determine the best option for your specific project.

Flemish Bond
Flemish bond is a type of brickwork bond, which is a pattern or arrangement of bricks used in
construction. Flemish bond is characterized by alternating headers (bricks laid with their short end
facing out) and stretchers (bricks laid with their long end facing out) in each course or layer of
brickwork.

In a Flemish bond, each header is centered over the stretcher below it, creating a pattern of
alternating headers and stretchers in each course. This alternating pattern of Flemish bond creates
a strong and durable bond, as the headers help to tie the two faces of the wall together and distribute
the weight of the structure evenly. This makes it a popular choice for load-bearing walls and other
structural applications. Flemish bond is often used in decorative brickwork, such as on the exterior
walls of buildings or in chimneys. It can also be used in load-bearing walls, but requires careful
construction to ensure the headers and stretchers are properly aligned and bonded.

Flemish bond can be challenging to construct, as it requires careful attention to detail and precise
bricklaying skills. However, when done properly, it can create a beautiful and durable brickwork
pattern that adds character and style to a building.
Rat Trap Bond

Architect Laurie Baker introduced it in Kerala in the 1970s and used it extensively for its lower
construction cost, reduced material requirement and better thermal efficiency than conventional
masonry wall, without compromising the strength of the wall. Rat trap bond is a sustainable brick
masonry construction technique that reduces the amount of bricks needed for construction while
maintaining structural strength. In this technique, bricks are placed in a vertical position which
creates a cavity in the wall that looks like a rat trap and hence the name. It maintains the same wall
thickness as that of the conventional brick masonry wall. It is also known as a Chinese brick bond.
The purpose of using this type of masonry bond is to reduce the number of bricks and mortar
required as compared to the English/Flemish bond because of the cavity formed in the wall.

The benefits of the rat trap bond technique include:

● Reduced use of bricks: The technique reduces the number of bricks needed for construction
by up to 25% compared to traditional brick masonry.
● Improved thermal insulation: The air cavity created by the technique provides improved
thermal insulation, reducing the energy required to heat or cool the building.
● Improved structural strength: The technique creates a more stable structure than traditional
brick masonry due to the interlocking of bricks.
● Reduced construction time and cost: Rat trap bond requires less time and labor to construct
compared to traditional brick masonry, resulting in reduced construction costs.
● Sustainable: The reduced use of bricks means less consumption of natural resources and
less waste generated during construction.
● Rat trap bond has been used successfully in various buildings, including schools, hospitals,
and residential buildings, and is gaining popularity as a sustainable construction technique.

Disadvantages of Rat Trap Bond

1. Due to the formation of cavities in the masonry, the building does not provide good sound
insulations.

2. Skilled labor is required to construct this type of masonry.

3. Frequent cleaning of external surface required if not plastered.

4. Special care and attention to be given while designing and constructing rat trap bond
masonry.
Arches

Arches are a popular architectural feature that have been used in building construction for
thousands of years. An arch is a curved structure that spans an opening, such as a doorway or
window, and carries the weight of the structure above it. The arch has been used in architecture
for thousands of years and has been a key element in many famous structures around the world.

There are several types of arches commonly used in construction, including:

● Round arch: This is the most common type of arch and is formed from a series of wedge-
shaped blocks or bricks arranged in a semicircular shape.
● Gothic arch: This is a pointed arch that is commonly used in Gothic architecture. It is
formed by two arcs that intersect at a point.
● Segmental arch: This is a flattened arch that is formed by a series of shorter arcs. It is
commonly used in buildings with low ceilings.
● Tudor arch: This is a flattened arch that is wider at the base and narrower at the top. It is
commonly used in Tudor-style buildings.

Arches can provide several benefits in building construction, including:

● Strength and stability: Arches distribute weight and pressure evenly across their curves,
making them strong and stable. They can support heavy loads without collapsing.
● Aesthetics: Arches are often used to create visually striking and beautiful designs in
architecture. They can add elegance and grace to a building's appearance.
● Space-saving: Arches require less horizontal space than traditional straight openings,
making them useful in areas where space is limited.
● Durability: Arches made of durable materials like stone or brick can last for centuries with
proper maintenance.
● Acoustic benefits: Arches can help to enhance sound quality in a room by directing and
focusing sound waves.
● Natural ventilation: Arches can be designed to promote natural ventilation and improve air
flow in a building.

Overall, arches are versatile and durable elements that can provide structural support, enhance
aesthetics, and improve functionality in architecture. They are used in a wide range of building
types, from ancient temples and castles to modern skyscrapers and bridges.
Panels

Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) are a type of building material used in construction. They are
made by sandwiching a layer of rigid foam insulation between two structural panels, typically
made of plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or other composite materials.

SIPs offer several advantages over traditional construction methods, including:

● Energy efficiency: SIPs provide excellent insulation and can significantly reduce heating
and cooling costs for buildings.
● Strength and durability: SIPs are strong and durable, with a high strength-to-weight ratio.
They can resist high winds and earthquakes better than traditional stick-framed buildings.
● Speed of construction: SIPs are manufactured offsite and can be quickly and easily
assembled on site, reducing construction time and labor costs.
● Improved air quality: The airtight construction of SIPs can help prevent the infiltration of
outdoor pollutants and allergens, leading to improved indoor air quality.

However, SIPs also have some disadvantages. They can be more expensive than traditional
building materials, and they require specialized training and equipment to install properly.
Additionally, the airtight construction of SIPs can make them more susceptible to moisture damage
if not installed and sealed correctly.

Cavity Wall

A cavity wall is a type of wall construction consisting of two parallel walls separated by a gap, or
cavity, which is usually filled with insulation material. The outer wall is often made of brick or
another weather-resistant material, while the inner wall is typically made of block or concrete. The
cavity between the two layers of masonry can range from 40mm to 150mm. The cavity provides a
number of benefits, including improved thermal insulation, reduced risk of dampness and mold,
and improved sound insulation. The air space between the two layers of masonry provides thermal
insulation, reducing heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the building. The cavity also
serves as a barrier to prevent moisture from penetrating the wall and causing damage. The cavity
may be ventilated to allow moisture to escape or left unventilated to enhance the insulation
properties.
Cavity walls are commonly used in modern construction, especially in areas with harsh weather
conditions, as they provide better insulation than solid walls. Cavity walls are constructed using a
variety of techniques and materials, and their design and construction may vary depending on
factors such as climate, building regulations, and local building practices. They are also retrofitted
to older buildings as a way of improving their thermal insulation and reducing energy
consumption.

Cavity walls have several benefits compared to solid walls, including:

● Thermal insulation: The air gap between the two layers of masonry provides thermal
insulation, reducing heat loss through the walls and improving the energy efficiency of the
building.
● Moisture control: The cavity allows moisture to drain away from the inner layer of
masonry, preventing moisture damage and improving the durability of the building.
● Sound insulation: The air gap between the two layers of masonry also provides sound
insulation, reducing noise pollution and improving the acoustic performance of the
building.
● Fire resistance: The cavity can help prevent the spread of fire between the two layers of
masonry, providing an additional level of fire resistance.
● Versatility: Cavity walls can be used in a variety of building types and styles, and can be
constructed using a range of materials.

Cavity walls are commonly used in residential and commercial construction and have become a
popular choice due to their energy efficiency and durability. However, it's important to ensure that
the cavity is properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth and
other moisture-related issues.

Ferro Cement and Ferro Concrete constructions

Ferro cement is a type of construction material made by combining cement, sand, and small
diameter steel wires or mesh. It was developed in the mid-twentieth century as an affordable and
durable material for boat-building, but has since been used for a variety of construction projects,
including buildings, tanks, and bridges. The ferro cement construction process involves creating a
mold or formwork in the desired shape, then applying layers of cement mortar and steel mesh or
wire to the formwork. The layers of cement and mesh are built up until the desired thickness and
strength is achieved, then the material is left to cure and harden.

Ferro cement has many advantages over other construction materials. It is lightweight and has a
high tensile strength, meaning it can withstand high levels of stress and tension. It is also resistant
to fire, weather, and other environmental factors. In addition, ferro cement is relatively inexpensive
and can be easily molded into various shapes and sizes. However, ferro cement also has some
disadvantages. It requires skilled labor and specialized equipment to construct, and the quality of
the final product can be affected by variations in the mixing and application of the material.
Additionally, if not properly maintained, ferro cement can be prone to cracking and corrosion over
time.

Advantages of Ferrocement

● Basic raw materials are readily available in most countries.

● Fabricated into any desired shape.
● Low labour skill required.
● Ease of construction, low weight and long lifetime.
● Low construction material cost.
● Better resistance against earthquake.

Disadvantages

● Structures made of it can be punctured by collision with pointed objects.

● Corrosion of the reinforcing materials due to the incomplete coverage of metal by mortar.
● It is difficult to fasten to Ferrocement with bolts, screws, welding and nail etc.
● Large no of labors required.
● Cost of semi-skilled and unskilled labors is high.
● Tying rods and mesh together is especially tedious and time consuming.

Ferroconcrete

Ferroconcrete, also known as reinforced concrete, is a type of building material composed of

concrete reinforced with steel bars or mesh. The steel reinforcement provides tensile strength to
the concrete, allowing it to resist bending, cracking, and other forms of stress that can cause failure.
Ferroconcrete is a popular construction material because it is strong, durable, and relatively
inexpensive. It is used to build a wide range of structures, including buildings, bridges, dams, and
tunnels. The process of constructing a ferroconcrete structure typically involves pouring the
concrete into forms or molds, then placing the steel reinforcement within the concrete before it
sets. Once the concrete has cured and hardened, the resulting structure is extremely strong and
resistant to damage from weather, fire, and other environmental factors. Ferroconcrete has been
used in construction since the late 19th century and has become one of the most widely used
building materials in the world. Its versatility and strength make it an ideal material for a wide
range of construction projects, from small residential buildings to large-scale infrastructure
projects.

Ferroconcrete has many advantages over other building materials. It can be shaped and molded
into various forms, allowing for greater design flexibility. It is also relatively inexpensive
compared to other materials, making it a cost-effective option for many construction projects.
However, ferroconcrete does have some disadvantages. It is heavy and requires strong foundations
to support the weight. It also requires skilled labor and specialized equipment to construct.
Additionally, if not properly maintained, the steel reinforcement bars can corrode over time,
leading to structural issues.

Different pre cast members using these materials

Ferrocement and ferroconcrete are two different construction materials that can be used to create
precast members or elements, which are produced offsite and transported to the construction site
for installation. Here are some examples of precast members that can be made using ferrocement
and ferroconcrete:

Precast members using ferrocement:

● Roofing sheets
● Wall panels
● Water tanks
● Septic tanks
● Fencing panels
In the case of ferrocement precast members, a thin layer of cement mortar is applied to a mesh of
small diameter wires or fibers. This is then placed in a mold or formwork and left to cure, resulting
in a strong and lightweight precast member.

Precast members using ferroconcrete:

● Beams
● Columns
● Slabs
● Wall panels
● Staircases

In the case of ferroconcrete precast members, a combination of cement, sand, and steel
reinforcement bars or mesh is used to create a strong and durable precast member. The mixture is
poured into a mold or formwork, then left to cure and harden before being transported to the
construction site.

Both ferrocement and ferroconcrete precast members have advantages and disadvantages,
depending on the specific application and requirements of the project. Precast members can offer
cost savings, quality control, and faster construction times, but they require careful planning and
coordination to ensure proper installation and performance.

Alternate roofing systems

There are many different types of alternate roofing systems that can be used in construction
projects. Here are a few examples:

● Green roofs - These are roofs that are covered in vegetation, which can help to absorb
rainwater and reduce runoff, as well as provide insulation and improve air quality.
● Solar roofs - These are roofs that are covered in solar panels, which can generate electricity
and reduce energy consumption.
● Metal roofs - These are roofs that are made of metal sheets or tiles, which are lightweight,
durable, and can be easily recycled.
● Thatch roofs - These are roofs that are made of natural materials such as straw, reeds, or
grasses. They are often used in traditional or rustic-style buildings.
 ● Membrane roofs - These are roofs that are made of synthetic materials such as PVC or
TPO. They are often used in commercial or industrial buildings.
● Clay tile roofs - These are roofs that are made of clay tiles, which are durable, fire-resistant,
and have a distinctive appearance.
● Slate roofs - These are roofs that are made of slate tiles, which are durable, fire-resistant,
and have a distinctive appearance.
● Concrete roofs - These are roofs that are made of reinforced concrete, which can be shaped
and molded into various forms and can provide good insulation.

The choice of roofing system will depend on various factors such as cost, durability, maintenance
requirements, energy efficiency, and aesthetic preferences.