The construction industry is getting more and more innovative over the years. One example is the use of new materials to address the demand for eco-friendly building practices, logistics issues, and material shortages. 

Of course, there are standard materials that contractors choose to utilize in their projects. But the pressing need for innovation prompts builders to think more inventively and adopt new construction materials. We are increasingly seeing these changes today. And, for sure, it will continue to shape the construction industry in the upcoming years. 

Learn more about these new construction materials being utilized by contractors today. 

Cross-Laminated Timber

Cross-laminated timber shares some characteristics with plywood. However, this type of engineered wood is stronger and thicker than plywood. A combination of two wooden panels of lumber, each oriented in a different direction to make the material more sturdy is involved in the manufacturing process of cross-laminated timber. 

Some manufacturers combine more than two wooden panels of lumber to reinforce the structural integrity of the timber. Cross-laminated timber is a choice material for environmentally-friendly construction projects. While it sometimes falls short in terms of affordability, cross-laminated timber is more sustainable than plastics, concrete, and steel. 

Multi-story buildings are being constructed with cross-laminated timber because of their sturdiness. The performance of this material is pretty impressive. 

Light-Emitting Cement

The manufacturing process of light-emitting cement includes phosphorescent elements for the material to produce an eerie green glow. Like solar-powered lights, this type of cement uses the energy from sunlight during the day and illuminates the roads and highways at night. 

This cement can emit light for up to 12 hours. Light-emitting cement promotes safety on the road because it produces illumination while minimizing glare. The lifespan of this cement is 100 years, and it is touted as one of the means to reduce electricity usage. However, it may not replace the role of standard street lights because it emits an eerie green glow at night. 

Self-Healing Concrete

An obvious downside of concrete is it can break or crack under tension, which lowers the structural integrity of a building. Due to concrete’s low tensile strength, innovative manufacturers have created a type of concrete that can heal itself after cracking and breaking. 

It may seem like a thing you only see in science fiction, but there have been studies and cases of practical usage of self-healing concrete for years. This type of concrete has a certain limestone-producing bacteria that fills cracks and gaps, causing this “self-healing” phenomenon. 

The use of self-healing concrete is not yet widespread, but it is estimated to be prevalent in 2025, with around $1.3 million in market value. In terms of sustainability, self-healing concrete can last longer than standard concrete. It can also reduce the cost of labor and maintenance over the years.

Pollution-Absorbing Bricks (Breath Bricks)

Cities with disturbing cases of air pollution create more health problems and premature death. One way to combat this problem is adopting the use of pollution-absorbing bricks in construction, especially in cities. These bricks can filter air pollutants and help clean the atmosphere.

Pollution-absorbing bricks are shaped in a way that directs airflow inwards and goes through a filtration system, not unlike a vacuum cleaner. Manufacturing these bricks consumes less energy than standard bricks. The materials used in creating these bricks are also affordable.

It can be a great leap forward in the construction and healthcare industries if we see cities and communities adopting pollution-absorbing bricks. 

Transparent Aluminum

It is common to see aluminum in construction, but it is rare to find transparent aluminum in many buildings. This innovative material has the structural integrity of metal and the aesthetics of glass. 

There are many uses for this material, such as in the manufacturing of marine vehicles and the construction of high-rise structures. Nowadays, transparent aluminum is widely used in military projects, but we can expect more widespread use of this material in the next several years. 

CABKOMA Strand Rods

CABKOMA strand rods were developed in Japan in 2016. This carbon composite material is strong, lightweight, and rust-resistant. Its benefits in construction include diverting earthquake vibrations away from structures and securing buildings during earth tremors.

Its high tensile strength is made possible by the carbon fiber inside the rod and the sheath of inorganic fiber in its exterior, then soaked in thermoplastic resin. Older buildings can use  CABKOMA strand rods to keep up with the latest building standards of today.

Final Thoughts

Engineers, architects, contractors, and project managers should learn more about the innovative materials used in the construction industry at present. New construction materials can help address material shortages, logistics issues, and the need for eco-friendly construction practices. 

The construction industry can thrive if we embrace innovation and continue to improve projects for the betterment of all stakeholders and the greater community.