Material Technology Trends 2023
As we move into 2023, there are several key technological trends to keep an eye on in the field of renewable energy, AI, robotics, sustainable building construction, and alternative materials. One trend to watch is the ongoing effort to de-carbonize construction. Concrete, which has a large carbon footprint, is a major focus of this effort. Researchers at universities in Bath, Cambridge, and Dundee are working together to develop new, more efficient concrete building systems that use less material. This joint effort, called ACORN (Automated Concrete Construction), uses robotic technology to optimize structural forms, which can reduce the amount of concrete needed for a given application by almost half.
Another trend to watch is the growing use of biobased materials in construction. Hemp, once considered a niche material, is gaining traction as an alternative to traditional materials like wood. For example, a local manufacturer has developed Foreverboard, a hemp-based alternative to gypsum wallboard that is resistant to moisture, mildew, pests, and fire. Durable and versatile, this product is still in the testing phase but has already generated significant market interest.
Renewable energy continues to grow, with the market for solar power expected to increase more than 13% in 2023. The range of technologies used to harness the sun's energy is also expanding to include new materials. Scientists at MIT have developed a scalable process to create ultralight thin-film solar cells that can be added to any substrate. These cells are composed of semiconducting inks adhered to a strong composite textile, which can generate approximately 370 watts per kilogram. This is roughly 18 times more powerful than traditional solar cells and suggests a more robust future for solar power.
AI is another trend to watch, as it is increasingly being used in the design process. The term "use" is shifting to "co-creation" to describe the relationship between humans and AI, as the technology is being used to generate creative images and streamline design tasks. Another trend to watch is the development of autonomous robots for construction and other industries, which can improve safety and efficiency on job sites.
Overall, these technological trends suggest that 2023 will be a year of significant progress in the areas of renewable energy, AI, robotics, sustainable building construction, and alternative materials.