A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
Strength and Cementation in a Termite Mound
Abstract Biocemented earthen structures like termite mounds can be ten times stronger than the surrounding soil and can last for decades to centuries. Their architecture harvests wind energy for ventilation in order to achieve highly controlled internal environment and has inspired construction of energy-efficient buildings but little is known about the chemical identity of the biocement used in termite construction and the trade-offs between strength and ventilation in a termite mound. By conducting field studies and controlled experiments on Odontotermes obesus termites, we establish the chemical identity of the biocement used in termite mound construction. We also demonstrate how high strength and optimum ventilation is achieved in a termite mound. Our results taken together will provide new insights into cost-effective and eco-friendly building constructions.
Strength and Cementation in a Termite Mound
Abstract Biocemented earthen structures like termite mounds can be ten times stronger than the surrounding soil and can last for decades to centuries. Their architecture harvests wind energy for ventilation in order to achieve highly controlled internal environment and has inspired construction of energy-efficient buildings but little is known about the chemical identity of the biocement used in termite construction and the trade-offs between strength and ventilation in a termite mound. By conducting field studies and controlled experiments on Odontotermes obesus termites, we establish the chemical identity of the biocement used in termite mound construction. We also demonstrate how high strength and optimum ventilation is achieved in a termite mound. Our results taken together will provide new insights into cost-effective and eco-friendly building constructions.
Strength and Cementation in a Termite Mound
Zachariah, Nikita (author) / Kandasami, Ramesh K. (author) / Das, Aritra (author) / Murthy, Tejas G. (author) / Borges, Renee M. (author)
2019-01-01
9 pages
Article/Chapter (Book)
Electronic Resource
English
Strength development of termite mound cement paste and concrete
| British Library Online Contents | 2018
| British Library Conference Proceedings | 2011