РАЗРАБОТКА ХИМИЧЕСКИХ МАТЕРИАЛОВ

Engineering Surveys, Application of Materials in Construction, and Development of the Chemical Industry in Construction

Introduction 

In the modern development of the construction industry, a comprehensive approach to engineering surveys, the selection of construction materials, and the advancement of the chemical industry in the context of construction production is of particular relevance. This article provides an analytical review of the current state and future prospects of these areas. 

1. Engineering Surveys in Construction 

Engineering surveys are a critical stage in the pre-project preparation of construction. They involve a set of studies on natural and man-made conditions of a site, necessary for the design and construction of facilities. 

Main types of engineering surveys: 

- Geodetic surveys – determining terrain relief, creating topographic plans, and digital terrain models. 

- Geological surveys – studying soil conditions and determining soil bearing capacity. 

- Hydrometeorological surveys – researching water bodies and climatic conditions. 

- Environmental surveys – assessing environmental conditions and identifying pollution sources. 

Modern survey methods include: 

- Geophysical research 

- Remote sensing 

- Geoinformation technologies 

- Laboratory sample analysis 

2. Innovative Construction Materials 

Next-generation construction materials are becoming a key factor in the development of the construction industry. The main directions of advancement include: 

- Self-healing concrete. This concrete contains capsules with bacteria and nutrients. When water enters the capsules, the bacteria activate and begin repairing cracks by producing limestone. 

- Flexible concrete. Cement is replaced with geopolymer composites and fly ash—a byproduct of coal-fired power plants. This concrete is more elastic and environmentally friendly, hardening at room temperature, reducing production costs. 

- Translucent concrete. Special transparent fillers and polymer additives give the concrete up to 50% light transparency, making it ideal for translucent walls, ceilings, and floors. This material combines the qualities of concrete and glass: strength, durability, and light permeability. 

- Glow-in-the-dark concrete. This innovative concrete absorbs sunlight during the day and emits it at night. It is suitable for use in pools, roads, parking lots, and facades, saving energy as it operates on solar power. 

- Plant-based polyurethane foam. This eco-friendly insulation material offers thermal resistance, sound insulation, and resistance to mold and pests. 

- Transparent wood. An innovative material created by removing lignin from wood and filling the pores with transparent polymer. It combines the aesthetic qualities of wood with light-transmitting capabilities, opening new possibilities for architectural solutions. 

- 3D graphene. A graphene-based material with unique mechanical and thermal properties. Its high strength and conductivity make it promising for lightweight and resilient structures. 

The chemical industry produces most materials used in building and finishing structures, as well as in repairs of any complexity. 

Key applications of chemistry in construction: 

- Concrete production. Concrete production relies on the chemical reaction between cement and water, known as hydration. Portland cement is the primary binder in concrete.

- Corrosion protection. Chemistry is crucial in developing coatings and treatments to protect metal structures from corrosion. For example, zinc-rich primers are commonly used for cathodic protection of steel structures. 

- Adhesive bonding. Chemical compounds create strong bonds between different materials. Structural adhesives, such as epoxy resins or polyurethanes, are widely used. 

- Fire protection. Chemistry contributes to the development of fire-resistant materials for buildings. 

- Waterproofing. Chemistry plays a vital role in creating waterproofing materials for foundations, roofs, and basements. 

In the future, fiberglass, thermal insulation, and polymer finishing materials may become prominent, significantly altering construction technology and the appearance of structures. The introduction of new metal- and element-organic compounds can impart properties like fire resistance, microbial resistance, and a balance of strength and elasticity. 

Overall, the use of chemistry in construction makes buildings better, more durable, and eco-friendly. As technologies advance, chemistry will continue to innovate construction. 

3. Development of the Chemical Industry in Construction 

The development of the chemical industry in construction includes several directions: 

- Creating polymers with enhanced properties. For example, synthetic polymers that can replace traditional materials like metals while maintaining similar properties. In 2024, Sibur launched an experimental facility for producing super-structural plastics. 

- Developing heat-resistant polymers. Researchers at Bauman Moscow State Technical University created a polymer material capable of withstanding temperatures up to +245°C. 

- Producing biodegradable materials. These materials, created through chemical processes, can decompose naturally, reducing waste and environmental impact. 

- Developing coatings and treatments for corrosion protection. Zinc-rich primers are used for cathodic protection of steel structures. 

- Creating fire-resistant materials. These materials are applied to wood, steel, and insulation to reduce flammability and slow fire spread. 

- Designing waterproofing materials. These prevent water and moisture penetration, protecting structures from damage, mold, and wear. 

Other innovations in construction chemistry include self-healing concrete, translucent concrete, glow-in-the-dark concrete, and bricks that purify the environment. 

4. Integration of Engineering Surveys and Materials Science 

The integration of engineering surveys and materials science is essential for successful construction projects. Data from engineering surveys helps select optimal materials and construction methods based on local conditions. For example, soil studies determine the most suitable foundation type for a site, reducing costs and environmental impact. 

A comprehensive approach to engineering surveys combines various studies for a thorough examination of structures, buildings, and construction sites. This includes geodetic, geological, environmental, and other surveys. 

Modern technologies used in engineering surveys: 

- Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Digital platforms for analyzing spatial data, modeling terrain, and creating digital maps. They generate 3D models based on satellite imagery and analyze changes in soil and hydrogeological conditions. 

- Automation using drones. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with cameras and LiDAR enable terrain surveys without direct specialist involvement. 

- Building Information Modeling (BIM). A technology for digital modeling of buildings, widely used in geotechnics. It creates digital foundation models considering geotechnical data and optimizes designs based on soil analysis. 

- Automated monitoring systems. These systems track soil changes in real time, preventing emergencies. They monitor building settlement, measure soil stress, and analyze dynamic loads on foundations.

The adoption of digital technologies in engineering surveys is not just a trend but a necessity, enabling the construction of safe and durable structures in any geological conditions.

5. Environmental Aspects in Construction 

Environmental considerations are increasingly important to reduce negative impacts and create healthy, sustainable buildings. 

- Eco-friendly materials. Wooden materials like laminated or glued timber are renewable resources. Recycled metals and glass reduce waste and resource consumption. 

- Waste minimization. Effective waste management improves environmental conditions and reduces disposal costs. Methods include developing green materials, optimizing designs, and implementing waste management systems. 

- Energy consumption reduction. Energy-efficient appliances, smart water management, and rainwater collection systems promote resource conservation. 

- Renewable resources. Solar and wind energy are gaining popularity in construction. Companies install solar panels and wind turbines to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut CO2 emissions. 

- Green buildings. These structures efficiently use energy and water, incorporating natural elements like green roofs and vertical gardens. 

- Passive houses. High-quality insulation of walls, roofs, floors, and windows is a key feature of passive houses. 

- Energy-efficient technologies. Insulation, energy-saving lighting, and climate control systems reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. 

- Circular economy in construction. Principles of circular economy maximize material reuse and recycling, minimizing waste and resource demand. In Germany, construction companies are required to recycle waste and design buildings for disassembly and material reuse. 

Conclusion

The development of engineering surveys, innovative materials, and the chemical industry in construction is closely tied to technological progress and modern environmental demands. A comprehensive approach to these areas enables the creation of high-quality, reliable, and eco-friendly construction projects that meet contemporary standards. 

Future industry development will focus on: 

- Integrating digital technologies 

- Creating smart materials 

- Advancing eco-friendly solutions 

- Optimizing production processes