Novel materials: low-tech solutions

The climate emergency is challenging engineers to consider a broader palette of non-traditional and/or novel structural materials.

The Novel materials series explores how engineers can approach both design and construction with these materials in mind, and it offers practical advice on what to consider to utilise them successfully within projects.
 
In this webinar, expert speakers shared guidance on three different materials that require limited processing:

• Scott Boote, Agnos Studio, explores the carbon benefits of adopting structural stone, in place of concrete or brick, and showcases how this can be implemented without any specialist knowledge or skills.

• Rosie Goldrick, MASS Design Group, presents the process of researching and developing standards for adobe blocks (unfired mud bricks) in Rwanda, and the opportunities presented by these regulations.

• David Taylor, Tŷ Pren, uses case studies to discuss the practical applications, challenges, and benefits of roundwood timber as a structural component in buildings.

Reasons to watch

• Find out the latest developments in construction materials

• Identify the newest options available for reducing your carbon footprint

• Discover best practices around sustainable design

Intended for

• Structural engineers of all levels

• SME owners, directors, and managers

• Architects and constructors

• ​Engineers working in developing countries

​Speakers

James Norman - Chair

James Norman - Chair Professor of Sustainable Design, University of Bristol

James worked on a wide variety of projects and has designed in a variety of materials, including steel, concrete, timber, earth, straw and glass. In 2015, James moved full-time into academia, where he teaches structural design with a focus on low-carbon solutions. He has co-written Conceptual Design of Buildings and Designing Timber Structures.

Rosie Goldrick

Rosie Goldrick Principal and Engineering Director, MASS Design Group

Rosie Goldrick leads a diverse team of multidisciplinary engineers in designing and implementing innovative projects throughout East Africa. She is a structural engineer with expertise in seismic design and non-conventional materials. She has also contributed to the development of standards for one of the most prevalent construction materials in Rwanda - adobe block.

David Taylor

David Taylor Senior Timber Framer, Tŷ Pren

David has over 10 years of experience working with natural materials in construction. Whilst working for industry leader Tŷ Pren, David has led the design of roundwood timber frame buildings and managed teams during all phases of construction. He is passionate about how roundwood can be incorporated into many different design solutions.

Scott Boote

Scott Boote Director, Agnos Studio

Scott Boote is a Chartered Structural Engineer with more than 20 years of professional experience. He is an advocate of low-carbon structures with a specialism in structural stone design. As a member of the IStructE Sustainability Panel, Scott actively encourages and facilitates Structural Engineers to meet climate objectives.