Material research work for green building

Green building can minimize material impacts, increase energy

efficiency and comfort through appropriate material choices and
waste reduction
However, not all green materials are created equal. Developers will
have to determine which materials are suitable for their projects
based on factors, such as cost, design and local climate.
Material Resource Efficiency
 Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
 Life Cycle Cost Analysis
 Embodied Energy Analysis

The following is a list of green foundation building techniques and

products that help reduce material impacts to the environment and
improve the performance of foundation systems:
 Fly Ash Concrete
Fly ash is a fine, glass-like powder recovered from gases created by coal-
fired electric power generation. The power plants produce millions of
tons of fly ash annually, which is usually dumped in landfills. Fly ash
consists mostly of silica, alumina and iron. It is a pozzolan — a substance
containing aluminous and siliceous material that forms cement in the
presence of water.
 Frost Protected Shallow Foundations (FPSF)
A FPSF foundation can be a cost effective foundation system for cold
climates where seasonal ground freezing and frost heaving are present.
Shallow foundations are typically less expensive due to shallower
excavation and the need for less concrete. FPSF systems are prescribed
in the International Residential Code (IRC).
 Insulating Concrete Forms (ICF)
ICFs are an alternative to standard wood framing for wall systems. They
are concrete foundation and wall forms that stay in place as a
permanent part of the wall assembly. ICFs are lightweight, interlocking
 blocks, made of polystyrene foam insulation, typically connected with
plastic ties and easy to set up. The forms come in planks or separate
panels.

 Autoclaved Aerated Concrete

It is an economical, sustainable, solid block that provides thermal and
acoustic insulation as well as fire and termite resistance. AAC is available
in a variety of forms, ranging from wall and roof panels to blocks and
lintels.

Components of sustainable green building materials

Manufacturing Building operations Waste management
process
Waste reduction Energy efficiency Biodegradable
Pollution prevention Water treatment and Recyclable
conservation
Recycled Non toxic Reusable
Embodied energy Renewable energy
reduction resources
Natural materials Longer life
Locally produced
materials