A research team from Texas A&M University is using nature-inspired designs and new materials. The goal is to coat the buildings with a special sheath that makes them more energy efficient.
A "smart metal skin" allows a building to have the working mechanisms of some living systems.
Towards breathable skyscrapers
Cladding a building with dynamic materials that change shape, function and attitude allows a building to "breathe" without the need for centralized control.
A real perspiration, and it is no coincidence that we speak of intelligent skin. Something similar to a "memory" metal mesh, but with additional features suitable for use in the construction field.
"When it's hot, we want the building's skin to open all its pores to absorb the air. When it's cold, we want the structure to protect itself. Without using external mechanical devices or electrical devices", says Maryam Mansoori of Texas A&M University.
Intelligent metallic leather: materials under study
The research team is exploring the use of smart materials such as shape memory alloys and stimulus-sensitive polymers. Several varieties of approaches are also being studied to produce building systems that work in complete synergy with the surrounding environment.
"At the moment we have many experiments in the pipeline on materials that respond to environmental signals", he claims Zofia Rybkowski, associate professor of construction science at the College of Architecture at Texas A&M University. "We are in a very advanced field, moving at breakneck speed: new materials of this type are being developed on an almost daily basis."
The intelligent metal skin solution allows a good combination of energy, environmental and aesthetic needs. Imagine the beauty of buildings that literally change with time and atmospheric temperature.
Knowing that the "natural" virtues also correspond to this beauty is a wonderful sensation.
Source: National Science Foundation
