Advances in Bio-Sourced Molecules and Materials in Civil Engineering

Dear Colleagues,

Bio-sourced molecules and materials represent the area of highest growth in civil engineering. They include adjuvants, plastics, rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, adhesives, foams, paints, sealants and admixtures. Bio-products have always been used in civil engineering, including in building and construction, but currently, they are increasingly used to obtain new additives or more efficient composite formulations. The objective of this Topic is to restart the work in this field, and thus better assess the development prospects.

The field of civil engineering faces challenges, and bio-sourced molecules and materials can provide cost-effective solutions, including the following:

• Resolve construction defects such as infiltration, chemical and environmental erosion, corrosion, and deformation;
• The production of energy-efficient materials;
• Minimize construction costs;
• Improve the thermal and acoustic insulation of buildings;
• Use ecofriendly building materials.

Thus, there is a need to replace conventional products with bio-based analogs.

The purpose of this Topic is to present the main types of bio-products used in civil engineering, to highlight the properties that make bio-products an appropriate choice of molecule/material and to list examples of their applications. The following main key properties will be taken into account for construction applications: mechanical properties, thermal and insulating properties, weathering, permeability, flammability, and environmental impact. The different fields of use for numerous bio-molecules or polymeric materials will be examined, including pipes and fittings, foundations, foams, roofing, flooring, paneling, roads, insulation, cable sheaths and sheaths, etc. Fiber-reinforced polymers that consist of several physical phases, including fibrous polymers dispersed in a continuous matrix phase, will also be considered. Polymer concretes will also be discussed due to the global demand for housing, transportation, and concrete products.

Prof. Dr. Patrick M. Martin
Dr. Vincent Dubois
Topic Editors