Use of Polymeric Materials in Construction to Improve Durability & Sustainability

Building and construction sector, including infrastructures, are facing many challenges which are scarcity of raw materials, CO2 emissions, lower construction efficiency, and deterioration under corrosive environment that cost the world economy $2.5 trillion and this translates to 3.4% of world gross domestic product. This paper presents several examples that show how the use of the nonmetallic materials improved sustainability and life cycles in the built environment by removing the corrosion issue from its root and using durable NM polymers in construction. The paper details recently patented Aramco technology for the use of nonmetallic paving panels that could be used as an alternative to concrete and asphalt paving. Other case studies presented cover use of GFRP Poles for traffic signs and signal poles to replace traditional steel poles. Details of developments for specialist structural application in bridges, in architectural applications, polymers in soils, fibers in pavement manholes and bendable concrete are presented.