Light-transmitting concrete, also known as translucent concrete, is said to be the next big thing in the field of construction since it possesses the strength of a fetus-style concrete while allowing the transmission of light through it. The translucent concrete market is anticipated to be around USD 1.2 million in 2024, while the forecasted market value by 2031 is around USD 26.8 million, with a CAGR of 55.8%. This concrete type is versatile since it enables the lighting of a particular space with the help of illumination and also enhances its core structure stability. These two features make it an interesting material; let’s discover its components and how it works.
Let us first observe the dynamics of how light-transmitting concrete works.
So, at the center of light-transmitting concrete exists a fine-grain concrete matrix with embedded optical fibers. Essentially, this consists of almost 95% concrete with the remaining 5% being the light fibers. So, these light fibers act like a tunnel that supplies light from one end of the concrete to the other end. Therefore, light-transmitting concrete is a great idea as it blends the best of both worlds: It provides a new type of translucency without losing the strength of concrete.
Key Components of Translucent Concrete
Optical Fibers: The Light Conduits
The role of optical fibers is very important in relation to the light-transmitting quality of translucent concrete. They are made of three layers, which are a core, cladding, and a buffer coating. The effective fiber diameter is adjusted so that light entering the concrete from angles other than normal, up to more than 60 degrees, is able to be captured and transmitted. These devices provide adequate light transmission and light uniformity within the concrete.
Concrete Composition for Transparency
In contrast with normal concrete, intrusiveness with light is greatly reduced in translucent concrete by the use of only fine aggregates such as sand. This further promotes transparency and ensures that there are no significant obstructions to light. The concrete blend has cement and other additives that assist in the integration of the optical fibers into the composites without weakening the concrete. Translucent concrete has a compressive strength of over 10,000 psi, which is comparable to high-strength conventional concrete, which is impressive, taking its high durability into consideration.
Materials Supporting Light Transmission
Achieving the right degree of transparency and order strength has a lot to do with the chosen materials. Translucent concrete will not only ensure that the light is passed through but also the fibers due to the reduction of coarse aggregates.
Technological Progress in Translucent Concrete Materials
In the agriculture sector, the use of luminous walls is gaining traction, as practitioners are turning their attention to the development of biocomposite products. Further development of the construction sector becomes impossible without linkages to modern technologies, which enable creating new biocomposite materials that address the challenges faced by the global community. When analyzed in relation to other markets, almost all products have significantly vulnerable selling positions within the sector.
Light Transmission Fundamentals
These products are reasonably priced and help to reduce electricity use in places where illumination is required. Dreem et al. noted that this will significantly reduce the amount of artificial light needed during the day. In this regard, it is important to highlight the dualistic nature of construction activity, where the emission of artificial light combines with the absorption and transmission of natural light.
Conclusion
The main advantages of light-transmitting technologies include energy efficiency in the production process along with minimal harmful emissions. Indeed, these technologies are used not only for the creation of natural light through the walls of buildings but also for the illumination of houses. This makes translucent concrete suitable for systems of sun rays falling inside the building, thus minimizing the need for using lights.
