Innovative Materials for Construction

Dear Colleagues,

Most of the typical materials employed in today’s construction industry present limitations, especially with regard to their durability—in either common or severe environmental conditions—and their impact on the environment. In response to these issues, academic and industrial efforts around the world have been devoted to developing new smart materials that can provide efficient alternatives, improve energy efficiency in buildings, or upgrade, repair, and protect existing infrastructures. Different and wide technological innovations are, therefore, quickly fostering advancements in the field of construction materials. A new generation of materials (e.g., bricks, cement, coatings, concrete, FRP, glass, masonry, mortars, nanomaterials, PCM, polymers, steel, wood, etc.) is, in fact, gaining a prominent position in modern building technology, because such materials are able to overcome various limitations and flaws of the conventional materials employed in construction, without neglecting the smart applications of pioneering materials in ancient constructions and historic buildings.

Even though the adoption of innovative materials in the field of construction has been demonstrated to be a successful strategy to achieve enhanced performance or even new and unexpected characteristics, several issues are still not completely resolved. On top of those issues, the cost/performance ratio of the novel solutions is important, because such materials must be demonstrated to be convenient without compromising quality. Other concerns are related to their sustainability: whether they are eco-friendly options, exploiting recycled materials or byproducts from other productions—the most desirable solution. Finally, the use of materials or systems that are unconventional in this field creates the need to update or develop new specifications and standards.

This Special Issue aims to provide a platform for discussing open issues, challenges, and achievements related to innovative materials proposed for use in the construction industry.

Prof. Mariaenrica Frigione
Prof. José Barroso de Aguiar
Guest Editors

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