What’s New in Civil Engineering in 2022
Innovation is perhaps the single most important aspect in the field of civil engineering. Without innovation, quality, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of both commercial and residential construction projects can stagnate. This, in turn, can lead to over-budget projects that aren’t done on time — two aspects that customers, builders, and firms can’t afford to have. But each year, innovative new concepts and products are changing the world of civil engineering. Here’s what’s new in civil engineering in 2022.
Implementation of Drones
Drones are everywhere. Photographers, drone racers, or just novice pilots all enjoy getting behind the controls and discovering new and hidden things. However, drone application to job sites has become more popular in recent times.
In 2022, the implementation of drones for civil engineering projects is transforming how project managers work. By flying a drone over a construction area, managers can observe large areas of land, as well as identify any potential issues along the way.
Self-Sealing Concrete
Concrete is one of the most common building materials on the planet, but due to sudden changes in temperature and weather, it’s also prone to cracking. Fortunately, self-sealing concrete may be available in the near future.
While the technology isn’t quite ready for market, self-sealing concrete uses small fibers or capsules filled with adhesives. When the concrete starts to crack, these capsules and fibers spring into action, filling the crack, preventing additional damage, and avoiding any problems with stability or aesthetics.
At EPS Engineering, we are focused on always researching and implementing new innovations, techniques and equipment that make sense for our customers. Cost savings and efficiency without sacrificing on quality is key. We love sharing these new innovations we research with you, whether we choose to implement them or not.
Photovoltaic Glazing
With increases in greenhouse gas emissions and global warming at the forefront of global issues, humans need to develop a solution to keep the planet safe. One of the ideas swirling around is photovoltaic glazing.
Photovoltaic glazing is a type of outer coating that can be placed on the exterior of buildings to help them generate their own electricity. Essentially, this glaze allows buildings to supplement existing power systems and turn buildings into larger solar panels. Builders can place this glaze on several areas, such as:
- Roof shingles
- Skylights
- Roof tiles
- Building facades
With these additional power sources, occupants of the building depend less on fossil fuels to heat, cool, and power their homes.
Kinetic Footfall Power Generation
Another interesting idea in civil engineering in 2022 is kinetic footfall power generation. The idea is simple. Builders create blocks on the ground in places frequented by heavy foot traffic. When people step onto these blocks, the block connects to components that help generate power.
While this sounds like science fiction, it actually may become reality in the near future. It may not produce loads of power, but even enough to power the lights in a park is well worth the effort.
What Lies Ahead for Civil Engineering?
With so many interesting and innovative new ideas within the civil engineering field, creating new ideas may seem impossible. But each and every year, talented individuals and firms are finding ways to improve new and existing infrastructure to improve the longevity and quality of projects.
What lies next? Only time will tell, but fresh, original ideas are never too far off in the industry. The only thing left to do is sit back and wait for 2023.
If you’d like to discuss civil engineering, underground construction, digging, or plumbing projects in the Bay Area, we’re happy to help.
We can provide you with a detailed assessment and proposal whether it’s an existing structure, new construction, above ground or underground. EPS Engineering has been serving the Bay Area for multiple decades, let us know how we can be of assistance. Contact us today.
