COMPOSITES V TRADITIONAL MATERIALS
Composites in Construction offer a number of potential advantages over traditional materials:
Ability to mould complex forms
- New aesthetic possibilities
- Geometrically more efficient solutions
Special surface finishes and effect
- Ability to integrate special finishes and a very wide variety of unusual effects
- Simulation of traditional materials such as stone or granite
Significant reduction in weight
- Huge weight savings – Composite Domes weigh 15% of a Concrete dome
- Easier, faster and more economic installation
- Ability to bring larger sections to site reducing assembly time and cost
- Reduction in size and cost of supporting structure, foundation
- Reduced energy in transportation to site
Superior Durability
- Resistant to atmospheric degradation
- Reduction in maintenance requirements
- Reduced through-life costs and disruption
Offsite fabrication and Modular Construction
- Improved Health and Safety
Improved thermal insulation and lack of cold bridging
- Reduction in carbon emissions and running costs
- Possible use of natural fibres and resins
For further information on the benefits of composte materials please see the Gurit Guide to Composites. or go to the Reference Materials section.
