Biomimicry and locally responsive construction: Lessons from termite mounds for structural sustainability

N. Claggett, B. Streeter, A. Surovek, P. Bardunias, Soonkie Nam

Research output: Contribution to book or proceedingConference articlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Structural sustainability is examined from a new perspective in this research employing biomimicry of termite mounds. The overall goal of the work is to developed structural topologies for use in low-rise buildings that that can significantly reduce energy consumption. These topologies would be organically developed for local conditions and integrate structural and mechanical building systems. In addition, understanding how termites alter the physical and chemical properties of substrates will inform construction that leverages local and/or low-cost materials. In particular, this paper examines two facets of termite mound construction: manipulation of soil by termites to improve material properties, and the development of primary topology (e.g. mound shape) as a function of termite species, environmental conditions, and local soil properties.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInsights and Innovations in Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation - Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2016
EditorsAlphose Zingoni
PublisherCRC Press/Balkema
Pages827-832
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9781138029279
DOIs
StatePublished - 2016
Event6th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2016 - Cape Town, South Africa
Duration: Sep 5 2016Sep 7 2016

Publication series

NameInsights and Innovations in Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation - Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2016

Conference

Conference6th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2016
Country/TerritorySouth Africa
CityCape Town
Period09/5/1609/7/16

Scopus Subject Areas

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Civil and Structural Engineering

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