Nidhi Dhull

1 week ago | azobuild.com | Bethan Davies |Nidhi Dhull

Reviewed by Bethan DaviesResearchers have developed a sustainable mortar blend that resists microbial growth by incorporating ginger and ornamental rock waste. This blend offers a promising alternative to conventional coatings in humid environments. Published in Sustainability, the study explored how these natural additives can enhance the mechanical strength and microbiological resistance of cement-based mortars.

1 week ago | azobuild.com | Bethan Davies |Nidhi Dhull

Reviewed by Bethan DaviesResearchers have developed a more precise method to identify and monitor shear crack development in concrete using acoustic emission analysis across multiple stress conditions. Published in Scientific Reports, the study analyzes how shear cracks form and evolve by capturing acoustic emission (AE) signals during direct shear, compression shear, and three-point bending tests.

1 week ago | azobuild.com | Bethan Davies |Nidhi Dhull

Reviewed by Bethan DaviesResearchers have demonstrated that wooden nail connections, when optimized for factors like nail diameter, sheathing material, and spacing, can significantly enhance the shear performance of timber structures, offering a viable, sustainable alternative to metal fasteners. A recent study published in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts explored this potential through a series of monotonic loading tests.

1 week ago | azom.com | Lexie Corner |Nidhi Dhull

Reviewed by Lexie CornerA new study published in Scientific Reports explores the use of bio-organic phase change materials (PCMs) to improve the thermal comfort of cotton fabrics. Researchers developed PCM composites using gelatin modified with fatty acids and incorporated either coconut oil or octadecanol. These composites were applied to cotton fabrics to enhance their ability to regulate temperature.

2 weeks ago | azobuild.com | Bethan Davies |Nidhi Dhull

Reviewed by Bethan DaviesResearchers have developed a synthetic lichen-inspired microbial system that can autonomously repair cracks in concrete using only air, water, and light. A recent study published in Materials Today Communications introduces a synthetic lichen system that mimics the natural symbiosis between phototrophs and heterotrophs to produce biomaterials in a self-sustaining way.