Yixuan Shao
JinKun Liu, Charlotte Sandoval
DES 40A
Professor Cogdell
Madinah Piazza Shading Project: Material
Introduce:
The Madinah Piazza Shading Project is recognized as the world's largest openable roof and is a milestone in architectural innovation and sustainability. The project is located in the heart of the holy city of Madinah and provides shade and comfort to thousands of visitors during the week, enhancing the visitor experience while preserving the sanctity of the holy site. The project utilizes a dynamic, adjustable shading system that opens and closes according to environmental conditions, reflecting a combination of technology and tradition. In today's construction industry, sustainable building is of paramount importance. Not only does it address the need for environmental change, but the use of sustainable building materials in the construction process combined with innovative design solutions. It allows the building's entire life cycle to maximize energy efficiency and minimize pollution. This paper will focus on the Madinah Piazza Shading Project as an example of sustainable architecture. At the same time, it reveals how the building uses advanced materials to make the building durable, functional and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. It is applicable to the entire building life cycle from construction, maintenance to final decommissioning.
Material Selection and Properties:
The success of the Madinah Haram Piazza Shading Project comes from the thoughtful selection of advanced materials. Each material has unique properties that contribute to the overall sustainability, durability and functionality of the structure. This section provides an overview of the materials used in the foundation, membrane and cladding, and upper column, highlighting their key characteristics and benefits.
In the Madinah Haram Piazza Shading Project, Self-healing concrete was used in the foundation. This is a sustainable building material that automatically repairs cracks that normally occur due to environmental and loading pressures. According to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, “the self-healing concrete will create polymers that migrate to the crack and form a tight bond to fill the void, reinforcing the material’s structure when a crack forms”. Then, the concrete will seal the cracks, effectively restoring the integrity of the material. From a life-cycle perspective, self-healing concrete reduces the need for frequent repairs and the use of additional materials. At the same time, the innovative nature of the material may help to extend the time between major renovations of the building. In general, self-healing concrete is an innovative material that extends the life span of the project.
For the membrane and cladding of the building, the Madinah Haram Piazza Shading Project used PTFE, a material that is waterproof, stain-resistant and weather-resistant. PTFE is a synthetic fluoropolymer that is highly reflective, making it ideal for structures that require light diffusion and reduced heat absorption. According to Fabritecture, “PTFE is highly reflective, making it an excellent choice for environments requiring significant light diffusion and a reduction in solar heat gain, which differentiates it from conventional glazing.” At the same time, the material's waterproofing and stain-resistant properties keep the structure clean and aesthetically pleasing.
The resistance to weather conditions such as UV exposure and temperature changes further extends the life of the structure and reduces the need for frequent replacements. From a lifecycle perspective, PTFE minimizes the need for maintenance, extends the life of the cladding and film, and reduces the need for cleaning and repairs, ultimately reducing operational costs.
For the Upper Column with Hydraulic Drive Mechanism and Marble Cladding, the engineers used High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) steel. This material was chosen for its excellent strength, durability and ability to sustain dynamic loads. According to Science Direct: “high-strength low-alloy steel has high resistance to wear and corrosion”and “their tensile strength may reach 450 MPa and their ductility may be as high as 30%.” Therefore, in this project, the main function of the HSLA steel is to support the hydraulic drive and the marble cladding, as well as to be able to withstand the stresses associated with the movement of the shading structure. From a life-cycle perspective, HSLA provides long-lasting structural framing, and the corrosion resistance of the steel reduces the need for frequent maintenance. In addition, through Nanotechnology Safety: “Structural steel is 100% recyclable and one of the most reused materials in the world. It can be seen that steel is highly recyclable. Which can be reused at the end of a structure's life, thus supporting sustainable building practices.
On the other hand, the main function of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites (CFRP) in this project is to support the hydraulic drive mechanism while ensuring that the overall structure remains lightweight. From CRP Technology's presentation:”The carbon fiber reinforced polymer has many advantages as it is lightweight. It is also very strong and stiff thanks to the carbon fiber reinforcement whereas the polymer gives protection and grasp on the fiber along with toughness.” We can see that CFRP is a very strong and lightweight material. This ensures smooth operation of the shading system without compromising structural integrity. From a lifecycle perspective, CFRP composites enhance the sustainability of the Madinah Haram Piazza Shading Project by reducing the weight of structural components, thereby reducing transportation and installation energy costs.
Overall, the thoughtful selection and application of these materials highlights the project's commitment to sustainability, durability and innovation, setting a new standard for future architectural projects.
Structural Components and Innovations:
For the Madinah Piazza Shading Project, the structural components and innovative technologies are further evidence of the project's commitment to utilizing advanced materials. Each architectural component was designed to enhance the dynamics, strength and aesthetics of the structure. This section will provide an overview of the materials used in the telescopic shaft, outer-inner arm sections, and decorative elements.
The Madinah Haram Piazza Shading Project, uses shape memory alloys (SMAs) to utilize in the telescopic shafts, this material that is able to deform and return to its original shape in response to specific temperature changes. This is essential for the dynamic control of the shading structure, allowing it to adapt to changing environmental conditions. According to NASA's Technology Transfer Program, SMA is a metal alloy with two unique properties, the shape memory effect and superelasticity. This allows the alloy to return to its pre-distorted shape when heated, while the superelasticity allows it to withstand high temperatures. At the same time, superelasticity allows the alloy to withstand and recover from large strains, ensuring that no permanent deformation occurs. The use of SMA in telescopic shafts helps to precisely control the sunshade structure. In a life cycle perspective, SMA's natural ability to self-adjust reduces the need for additional operating costs.
Madinah Piazza Shading Project uses glass fiber reinforced polypropylene: (GFRP) for the outer and inner arm sections. This material was chosen for its strength, durability and lightweight, making it ideal for the umbrella skeleton structure. According to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), GFRP shows excellent mechanical properties, including high impact resistance. In the Madinah Piazza Shading Project, GFRP was used to construct the skeleton of the sunshade. It ensures that the shade structure can withstand environmental stresses such as wind and temperature fluctuations. On the other hand, from a life cycle perspective, the corrosion and weathering resistance of GFRP ensures that the shading structure maintains its functionality and appearance over the long term.
Glass block is used as a decorative element to strengthen the walls of a building and for visual appeal and durability. These materials are chosen for its aesthetic appeal and solid performance in a variety of environments. The glass block is resistant to moisture and temperature changes, ensuring long term performance. From a lifecycle perspective, glass blocks are a durable and low-maintenance decorative solution, while being reused or recycled at the end of their life cycle.
All in all, the use of these sophisticated materials highlights the importance of innovative solutions in architectural design.
Primary Source of Materials:
The success of the Madinah Haram Piazza Shading Project was due to the careful selection and sourcing of advanced materials. The following is a detailed explanation of the primary source of each material.
Self-healing concrete was chosen for the foundation. The main ingredients include cement from limestone and other minerals, aggregates, usually from local quarries to minimize transportation impacts, and water from local sources. The microcapsules are manufactured using polymers and filled with healing agents such as bacteria or chemicals.
In the membrane and cladding, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is utilized for its waterproof, stain-resistant, and weather-resistant properties. PTFE is a synthetic chemical compound, containing fluoropolymer, made from tetrafluoroethylene, which is derived from fluorite, sulfuric acid and chloroform. The production process is complicated by chemical processing. Ultimately, PTFE is shipped to the construction site in rolls for easy handling and installation.
The upper column with hydraulic drive mechanism and marble cladding employs High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) steel and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites (CFRP). HSLA is made from iron ore, coal and limestone, with alloying elements to enhance its properties. The raw materials are mined and processed in steel mills and the finished steel is shipped to construction sites in prefabricated parts to simplify the assembly process. On the other hand, CFRP is made of carbon fibers made of polyacrylonitrile or bitumen and epoxy resin. The carbon fibers are manufactured in high-temperature furnaces and then combined with polymers in specialized equipment. The resulting composites are relatively lightweight and therefore easy to transport to the construction site, reducing energy costs for transportation and installation.
The structural components and innovations also include Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene (GFRP). SMAs are usually made of nickel-titanium alloys. These materials are processed in alloy production facilities and then transported to the construction site ready for installation. In contrast, GFRP consists of glass fibers made from silica sand and a polypropylene matrix derived from petroleum, and is mainly produced in furnaces and under polymerization processes. These prefabricated parts are transported to the construction site, ensuring efficient logistics and installation.
In addition, glass blocks, which are used as decorative elements, are made from silica sand, soda ash and limestone, which are melted to form glass that is then colored, cut and shaped. The raw materials are taken from quarries, processed in a glass manufacturing plant, and the finished tiles are then transported to the building site for installation.
Overall, most of these materials were pre-fabricated at the primary source, which minimized environmental impact throughout the construction process. This comprehensive approach to materials selection underscores the project's commitment to innovative and sustainable construction.
Life Cycle Analysis:
During the construction period, the selection of sustainable materials was a key component of the Madinah Piazza Shading Project. The project team prioritized materials with durability, minimal environmental impact and recycling potential. For example, self-healing concrete and PTFE(where it comes from) were chosen because of their long-term benefits and lower maintenance requirements. From a raw material extraction and logistics perspective, the lighter weight of these materials reduces the number of shipments from a transportation perspective, which in turn reduces carbon emissions and the environmental impact of the distribution process.
In the maintenance phase, This program utilizes advanced materials . Investments in durable materials can reduce maintenance costs. In addition, the environmental benefits of using sustainable materials help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the project.
During the decommissioning phase, materials such as HSLA steel and glass blocks used in the project can be recycled, ensuring that the environmental impact of the building at the end of its life is minimized.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Medina Plaza Shade project has been designed to be technically and environmentally sustainable at every stage of its life cycle through the careful selection of building materials. The importance of sustainable building is crucial in today's construction industry. There is much to be learned from this project's use of sustainable building materials during construction, combined with innovative design solutions that ultimately maximize energy efficiency and minimize pollution throughout the building's life cycle.
Biography
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2. “Madinah Piazza Shading Project.” SL Rasch, SL Rasch GmbH, 2011, www.sl-rasch.com/en/projects/u-26-piazza/.
3. “What Is PTFE?” AFT Fluorotec, AFT Fluorotec Head Office, 2024, www.fluorotec.com/materials/ptfe/what-is-ptfe/
4. Etcheverry, Mariana, and Silvia E Barbosa. “Glass Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene Mechanical Properties Enhancement by Adhesion Improvement.” Materials (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 June 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5448969/.
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6. “Medina Haram Piazza 25m Shading Umbrellas.” PCT, Premier Composite Technologies LLC, www.pct.ae/25m-umbrellas.Accessed 3 June 2024.
7. SDA. “Story of the Heat Absorbing Giant Umbrellas! - Al Khalid Tours.” Al Khalid Tours & Travels, Al Khalid Tours & Travels, 9 Aug. 2016, alkhalidtours.com/blog/story-heat-absorbing-giant-umbrellas/.
8. “Climate-Control Parasols for the Extension to the Prophet’s Holy Mosque 1992 - Replacement and Extention 2012.” Edited by Marijke M. Mollaert, Tensinet, TensiNet, www.tensinet.com/index.php/component/tensinet/?view=project&id=3761. Accessed 3 June 2024.
9. “Self-Healing Cement.” PNNL, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, www.pnnl.gov/available-technologies/self-healing-cement. Accessed 3 June 2024.
10. Amran, Mugahed, et al. “Self-Healing Concrete as a Prospective Construction Material: A Review.” Materials (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 29 Apr. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9106089/.
11. Wang, Tian. “Structural Membranes: Exploring ETFE and PTFE Synthetic Polymers in Architecture.” Architizer, Architizer Editors, 24 Mar. 2022, architizer.com/blog/practice/materials/etfe-ptfe-synthetic-polymer-architecture/.
12. “PTFE.” Fabritecture, 17 June 2022, fabritecture.com/knowledge/ptfe/#:~:text=PTFE%20is%20highly%20reflective%2C%20making,differentiates%20it%20from%20conventional%20glazing.
13. “High-Strength Low-Alloy Steel.” High-Strength Low-Alloy Steel - an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics, ScienceDirect, www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/high-strength-low-alloy-steel.Accessed 3 June 2024.
14. Btiernay. “What Is HSLA Steel?” Metal Supermarkets, The Covenience Stores For Metal, 25 Mar. 2021, www.metalsupermarkets.com/what-is-hsla-steel/.
15. John G. Lenard, “Material Attributes.” Primer on Flat Rolling (Second Edition), Elsevier, 10 Jan. 2014, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780080994185000081.
16. Srikanth, Madhulika, and Ramanzan Asmatulu. “Nanotechnology Safety in the Construction and Infrastructure Industries.” Nanotechnology Safety, Elsevier, 21 June 2013, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780444594389000084.
17. “What Is Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer?” CRP Technology, CRP TECHNOLOGY S.r.l., 9 Aug. 2022, www.crptechnology.com/insights/carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer/
18. Johnson, Todd. “What Are CRFP Composites and Why Are They Useful?” ThoughtCo, Dotdash Meredith , 1 Apr. 2019, www.thoughtco.com/understanding-cfrp-composites-820393.
19. “Shape Memory Alloy with Adjustable, Wide-Ranging Actuation Temperatures.” NASA, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, technology.nasa.gov/patent/LEW-TOPS-130. Accessed 3 June 2024.
20. Etcheverry, Mariana, and Silvia E Barbosa. “Glass Fiber Reinforced Polypropylene Mechanical Properties Enhancement by Adhesion Improvement.” Materials (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 June 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5448969/.
JinKun Liu
Professor Cogdell
DES 40A
Shade and Sustainability: The Energy Life Cycle of the Medina Piazza Shading Project
The Medina Piazza Shading Project, a landmark effort in architectural design, which is part of the Prophet's Mosque at Medina, has adequately provided shade and rest to the pilgrims who go and pay their respect to the Prophet. The project, with an installation year of 2010, is made up of 250 large umbrellas, crafted from a PTFE fabric that is extremely long lasting, “PTFE is an incredibly versatile material with a wide variety of applications” (What Is PTFE, 2024), having each of them able to cover an area of 2.5.5 square meters. The provided umbrellas, which not only protect you from the powerful sun rays but also add beauty to the monumentality of the sacred site due to their design and utility, is of great importance. According to SL Rasch, the company behind the project, "the specially developed Teflon fabric is dirt-repellent and wear-resistant, as well as delivering the crucial benefit of high tensile strength" (SL Rasch, 2021). Besides the fact that the Strategic Necessity of the Umbrellas Magazine points at the Architect Magazine as noting that "the time of pilgrimage is returning to the extremely hot summer months, making a sunshade absolutely essential" (Architect Magazine, 2013). Besides technical mastery and cultural respectful reflection, the Medina Piazza Shading Project is the blending of architectural high technology and creation of eco-friendly spaces on one level, but also this one represents the sustainable development in sacred areas in general by its innovative design, energy-saving operation, and ecological management, allowing the pilgrims to be more comfortable physically and spiritually. The Medina Piazza Shading Project exemplifies a pivotal integration of sustainable energy practices within religious architecture, utilizing innovative materials and technologies to enhance energy efficiency throughout its lifecycle—from design and construction to operation and decommissioning—thereby setting a benchmark for future eco-friendly developments in sacred spaces.
The Medina Piazza Shading Project is the impressive arena that has separate scientific and cultural and hence religious solutions. This project is very unique in that it will particularly be targeted at providing respite from the blazing desert sun for the countless pilgrims that frequent this holy place every year. The installation which spans nearly twenty-five umbrellas to the size of around 143,000 square meters was laid for all visitors to rest under. Besides being functional by providing shade and causing elapse in temperature of about 15 degrees Celsius, these umbrellas form part of the spiritual atmosphere by giving an appearance of wings having grace. Moreover, Shinkenchiku highlights the scale of the new complex and also, the place it is to suit all the increasing travelers by noting that "two hundred and fifty large umbrellas...are installed" (Shinkenchiku, 2012). Every umbrella is built with quality, wear-resistant materials that withstand weather conditions and respect the historical minimalist design that is ideal for the mosque architecture. Such a brief embodies the spirit of innovation, devotion and sustainability at the same time and in turn is an integral part of pilgrims’ voyage, that involves their reasoning along with the spiritual tranquility. Therefore, this diverse building stands as a remarkable symbol of devotion to modern architectural design and harmony within the sacred madrasah settings since the most recent technologies have been used in an expressive manner. Also as mentioned by the author Sala that “We are well aware that there exists a pressing need to improve the performance and the quality of buildings” (Sala, 189).
The Medina Piazza Shading Project, the major component of climate-friendly architecture in Saudi Arabia, embraces planning, prototyping, and constructing-deconstructing phases which are greatly time and energy intensive. The initiation stage of the project consumes relatively quite a lot of the produced electrical and mechanical energy, which is intended to develop all of the separate components of the system. The computational power is used very intensively in the design phase. The complex 3D modeling and stress simulation for the umbrellas that will operate under different levels of water depths and currents together with the large retractable umbrellas taking the most load to ensure that they can withstand harsh environmental conditions. On the other hand, the production takes more energy than the construction one. It includes metal for frames and membrane made from UV-resistant material for canopies which precede an energy-hungry process. A Notable example of this is the steel production which incorporates two sorts of energy: electricity for the use of heavy machinery and thermal energy which is used to smelt and mold the metal. The creation of performance fabrics is very energy intensive and requires chemicals and heat to fabricate hybrid fibers that are not only durable and light-permeable but also meet water and weather repellency criteria.
In the process of conducting the operation, the project draws huge amounts of electricity to power the complex hydraulic engines that govern the opening and closing of leaves. It is at this point where efficiency is central in making the system run smoothly with the right manner of addressing issues such as changes in the sun's position and fluctuating crowds. With maintenance generating energy demand aside for the own moving parts and application of electrical energy for diagnostics and mileage checks, overall energy footprint is getting further enhanced. From that perspective of the umbrellas, that is, end-of-life management, the chain of using the energy manifests itself precisely in mechanical disassembly and possibly the recycling processes. Decommissioning of the steel structures may require cutting and melting procedures that would require substantial amounts of heat and electric energy. Waste management comes last, where ingenious ways of reducing energy consumption and environmental impact are achieved by recovering materials and recycling them for other uses including development of special fabrics and metals into new stuff, hence turning energy wasted in making the initial products into more productive applications. In addition to being a tremendous energy undertaking on its own, our project also provides a sample of how to design green urban districts that exhibit energy efficiency in their use and reduction of dependency on central air conditioning, which is the primary problem.
An Energy Advisory report, coordinating a comprehensive shading system to the prophet's mosque, is proposed, which comprises a multilayered energy cycle, and relies on multiple energy sources with heavy transportation logistics. Also notable is that “Through controlled use of this variable roof structure extreme climate differnces can be equalised, modifying the climate inside the building and reducing energy consumption” (Mollaert, 2024). The commencement of the construction phase of the project entails the utilization of hybrid diesel and electric tools of the heavy machinery. However, in terms of the machinery, the cranes and the heavy-lifting equipment of which are diesel engines and are quite powerful, diesel is the obvious choice for power supply. The materials including premium grade steel and specifically designed fabrics from the different countries of the world are transported over long distances to come to the ports where the ships are being manufactured. As, for example, steel components are sent to producers from East Asia, the commodity is shipped thousands of kilometers by sea mainly on diesel-functioned vessels that pick them up and finally deliver them in Saudi Arabia where the major mode of transportation is still diesel-powered trucks.
This is followed by the commissioning of the facility during which emphasis is laid on energy efficiency and sustainability in the meantime to be in line with the environmental-ethical framework of the province. Equipment like electric service vehicles and drones for aerial inspections utilize battery power for their operations and emit low levels of pollution in that area. Amazingly, the shading itself structures are smartly wired with the solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, which perform two important duties; electricity generation and heat denial below the canopies. The energy yielded by the panels serves a dual purpose: it not only powers all the lighting systems, but also runs the grid of the neighboring mosque complex. Through plants’ ability to gradually replace conventional power sources and by doing infrastructure for transferring over long distance materials and high-energy construction appliances, we have favored environmentally friendly energy utilization throughout all stages of the project, dedicating the sacred sphere of Medina to sustainable development.
Conclusively, Deming's Plaza Shading project displays a full suite of cutting-edge, engineering and architectural inventions directed at religious sites. The project which integrates technology, appearance design, and ecological consciousness does not only meet the pilgrims' spiritual and physical needs, but also exhibits a model for green growth in the places of faith. The sustainable commitment of energy efficiency and sustainability is reflected in each sequential phase of its life cycle, including design and decommissioning. The parasols themselves showcase the possibility for coupling of renewable resources such as solar power into ordinary structures which possess functional purpose. Through this initiative, we not only ensure the temporary rest and refuge of the people who visit the Prophet's Mosque but we also pave the way for futuristic projects of this kind in areas of religious sanctity and cultural relevance. It delineates the striking pattern of the thoughtful design and the environmental sensitivity embodied in the Medina Piazza Shading Project becomes a landmark of modern architecture in general and particularly of ecological awareness in the center of Medina.
Bibliography
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Medina Haram Piazza | Architect Magazine, www.architectmagazine.com/project-gallery/medina-haram-piazza. Accessed 3 May 2024.
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“25m Umbrellas.” PCT, Premier Composite Technologies LLC, www.pct.ae/25m-umbrellas. Accessed 3 May 2024.
“Story of the Heat Absorbing Giant Umbrellas! - Al Khalid Tours.” Al Khalid Tours -, Al Khalid Tours & Travels, 9 Aug. 2016, alkhalidtours.com/blog/story-heat-absorbing-giant-umbrellas/.
“Climate-Control Parasols for the Extension to the Prophet’s Holy Mosque 1992 - Replacement and Extention 2012.” Edited by Marijke M. Mollaert, Tensinet, www.tensinet.com/index.php/component/tensinet/?view=project&id=3761. Accessed 3 May 2024.
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Charlotte Sandoval
JinKun Liu, Yixuan Shao
DES 40A
Professor Cogdell
Medina Haram Piazza: Waste and Emissions Life Cycle Analysis
Located in Saudi Arabia and covering 143,000 square meters is the Medina Haram Piazza, surrounding the mosque in Medina al-Munawwarah. The project, completed in August of 2010, is an arrangement of 250 umbrellas, with convertible shading roofs that span a surface area of 25.5 x 25.5 meters and reach 15 meters high. These structures provide shade for up to 250,000 people, making them the largest convertible roofs in the world. Commissioned by King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, the project aimed to accommodate more worshippers who previously missed the opportunity to pray due to insufficient space, and it now surrounds the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque. The design includes elegant columns with an innovative fold-arm system and a creative play of light through a transparent membrane. The umbrellas are made up of a tough PTFE fabric developed by SEFAR Architecture, chosen for its resistance to ultraviolet rays, tensile strength, wind and fire resistance, elasticity, and light penetration. The funnel-like membranes are clad with glass fiber composite panels that protect against sand and wind and are decorated with mosaics of weatherproof glass tiles. These remarkable umbrellas reduce the temperature by 8°C, a benefit of the PTFE fabric. The design intricacies ensure sustainable development while balancing aesthetics and functionality. The waste and emissions of the Medina Haram Piazza Shading Project, from production and construction to operation and demolition, showcase the process of adopting sustainable practices to achieve positive outcomes, despite its own inherent flaws. To properly examine its environmental footprint, I will forward on the project's life cycle—raw material extraction, materials processing, manufacturing, construction, operation and maintenance, end of life, and transport and distribution. This analysis will highlight the dual nature of "sustainable" projects and explore what that term truly means.
Self-healing concrete, a central component of the Medina Haram Piazza, offers a glimpse into sustainable construction. This material selection is crucial in reducing environmental impact by countering concrete’s significant contribution to climate change. Producing one ton of cement typically generates about 0.8 to 0.9 tons of CO2 emissions, contributing roughly 8% to global human-made CO2 emissions and around 25% to industrial carbon emissions (ASU News). The steel used to reinforce concrete structures is another major source of carbon emissions. However, the advancements in self-healing concrete distinguish it from its original forms. RICS, a leading professional organization in land, property, infrastructure, and construction, underscores the significance of self-healing concrete in sustainable building practices, stating, “Self-healing concrete addresses this issue by incorporating other materials, such as bacteria that can produce limestone to fill cracks, reducing the amount of cement required” (Pollock, Aaliyah, 2024). These advancements have led to reductions of up to 72 kg of CO2 in self-healing concrete structures through decreased usage of cement and steel (Pollock, Aaliyah, 2024). The use of self-healing concrete leads to a decrease in material consumption, as it requires less concrete and can repair itself, thereby preventing future occurrences that might necessitate replacements. Moreover, a decrease in CO2 emissions can be seen in relation to fewer repair commutes. According to Basilisk Concrete, a company specializing in sustainable construction solutions, self-healing concrete can extend its lifespan by 30 to 40%, signifying a positive move towards sustainability (Basilisk Concrete). By extending the lifespan of concrete, we not only lessen frequent replacements but also reduce the production of waste and emissions associated with construction and end-of-life processes. While this concrete is not the perfect solution it strives towards the goal of sustainability by reducing its environmental footprint through its production and end-of-life.
Moving forward we have the membrane and cladding feature of a structure, a combination of PTFE and a Photocatalytic coating. PTFE has low thickness and weight, which facilitates easier manufacturing, transportation, and installation processes (Fabric8 Membrane Services, 2024). Additionally, "PTFE-coated glass cloth can be installed in long-span projects that require less steel and emit fewer CO2 emissions" (Fabric8 Membrane Services, 2024). There is a reduced material usage which means less waste as an output which tags along with lower emissions. Still, PTFE is one of the more sustainable choices due to its lifespan exceeding 30 years, leading to less waste and overall emissions, as fewer maintenance and replacements are expected (Fabric8 Membrane Services, 2024). Extending the life cycle of materials in the long run significantly decreases the volume of generated waste and emissions involved from the ground up. The benefit of PTFE with a photocatalytic coating is the breaking down of pollutants leading to cleaner air addressing the direct and indirect sourcing of waste and emissions (Keim, n.d.). PTFE has a number of processes in production including, “ cold compression Moulding / Sintering Process, Isostatic Moulding / Sintering process, RAM Extrusion, Paste Extrusion, Hot Coining process, Skiving process, Calendaring process & Coating process & machined to get final component” (Hindustan Nylons, 2024). In the early ages of raw material extraction fluorite and fluorspar required to make PTFE involves mining, wastes of mining including overburden and waste rock and tailings. (European Commission, n.d.) After raw materials are gathered they must be prepped in a process that can generate waste through chemical synthesis and Polymerization and result in wastewater, byproducts and emissions from chemical reactions (NILU, 2009; Orion Coat, n.d.)." In the manufacturing process, PTFE undergoes cold compression moulding, a method known for its efficiency and relatively low waste generation (Recycled Plastic, n.d.). Following this, PTFE undergoes isostatic moulding, a technique used to process PTFE powders into complex shapes of various sizes (Dixon Resine, n.d.). The tempered material is likely to generate small amounts of excess waste, including chips and dust, during the following manufacturing processes. Its air purifying abilities allow for a more eco-friendly standing along with its need of less material but as we see it also contains flaws itself and isn't entirely sustainable.
Up last is the upper column of the structure that is equipped with a Hydraulic Drive Mechanism with Marble cladding constructed from high-strength low-alloy steel and reinforced with carbon fiber composites. Steel is highly recyclable according to GreenSpec, "Iron and steel are the world's most recycled materials, and among the easiest materials to reprocess, as they can be separated magnetically from the waste stream. Recycling is via a steelworks: scrap is either re-melted in an electric arc furnace (90-100% scrap), or used as part of the charge in a Basic Oxygen Furnace (around 25% scrap). Any grade of steel can be recycled to top quality new metal, with no 'downgrading' from prime to lower quality materials as steel is recycled repeatedly" (GreenSpec, n.d.). Due to the high rates of recyclability there is less new steel going around and thus resulting in a smaller output of emission production typically associated with new steel. High-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels are produced differently from typical steels resulting in different generated waste and emissions. An article by ScienceDirect notes, "HSLA steels are designed to achieve their desired mechanical properties by the development of microstructures through controlled thermomechanical processing (TMP) and the steel is produced in its final form by a continuous hot deformation process, rolling, or forging, which comprise the TMP" (ScienceDirect, n.d.). These processes enhance the materials properties but also add on to its environmental footprint. Take for instance the hot deformation, rolling, and forging process which consumes lots of energy and produces an output which also generates emissions. Although it is to note that it is this enhanced steel in strength and durability that leads to the steel's longer lifespan leading to little need for it to be produced again and even if so it would likely be through recycled steel. When producing high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel, raw material extraction for elements such as iron ore, manganese, vanadium, and niobium is processed. This process generates waste, including tailings and emissions from machinery (Manufacturing on Demand) (GreenSpec). During an oxygen furnace method, a part of steel production tons of CO2 are emitted, "1.77 tons of CO2 per ton of steel," unless using an electric arc furnace (Manufacturing on Demand) (GreenSpec). The steelmaking process releases various pollutants. For instance, "volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM) are emitted during the co*king of coal and use of various solvents" (MDPI) (GreenSpec). Additionally, "the combustion of fossil fuels in steel production results in the emission of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx)," both of which are contributors to acid rain (Manufacturing on Demand) (GreenSpec). In the stages of hot rolling and forging, reheating steel to high temperatures further add on emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) (Xometry). According to the American Iron and Steel Institute, an advocate for sustainability in the steel industry, steel holds an important attribute in that it is 100% recyclable. (American Iron and Steel Institute). Its recyclability rate is a critical aspect in minimizing waste and thereby making it a rather sustainable choice for the structure.
The Medina Haram Piazza incorporates structural elements such as telescopic shafts with shape memory features, and outer and inner arms made from glass fiber reinforced polypropylene, alongside additional elements like structured glass tiles and engineered wood composites, which are selected for their sustainability but also come with their own set of inherent challenges. The production of shape memory alloys (SMAs) concludes various processes that can generate waste and emissions, mainly coming from energy consumption, extra material, and chemical emissions. According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Quality, the process of metal smelting and refining has significant environmental impacts. The researchers reveal, “Metal smelting and refining produce gaseous (CO2, SO2, NOx, etc.) and particulate matter emissions, sewage waters, and solid wastes” (Dudka & Adriano, 1997). The emissions not only contribute to air pollution but also affect water management systems. In the final stages decorative elements such as glass tiles and wood composites are incorporated into the structure. In a glass forum article on glass production it states, “Glass is made from raw materials such as silica sand, soda ash, and limestone. The extraction of these materials requires heavy machinery, which consumes energy and releases carbon emissions” (Glass Forum). These components are not clear from wastes and emissions and it is clear there are several paradoxes even in what is claimed as sustainable. The wood composites found in the Medina Haram Piazza involve various waste producing processes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finds that its processes involve forestry operations that lead to habitat destruction and logging and transportation emissions (EPA). The processing of the wood leads to dust, offcuts, and wood fines and adhesives used for formation including urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde resins emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). During heating and pressing processes additional greenhouse gasses are emitted. The Forest Products Laboratory of the U.S. The Forest Service says that it can be sustainable when sourced responsibly from forests. To further a step in sustainability, adhesives in the manufacturing process need to be addressed.
While specific confirmation regarding the project's statistics on waste and emissions is not readily available, assumptions based on data specific to each step and material are. The Medina Haram Piazza project was constructed and designed to counter the environmental impact of the materials used, suggesting longevity, few maintenance requirements, and even structural components and innovations such as specific material selection for cooling rather than a cooling system. Fewer waste along with emissions is a long-term achievement due to their careful choices. At the end of its life-cycle the materials used are still recyclable for the most part. The umbrellas manufactured by the company Liebherr have received gold medals from EcoVadis, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. Through their operations, they focus on minimizing waste. As stated by Liebherr on their website, “We follow a holistic environmental protection concept that covers the entire product life cycle: the development, production, use, and eventual disposal of our appliances” (Liebherr). They monitor their environmental impact and consistently strive to produce with efficiency and longevity in mind, creating products like zero-emission machinery. SEFAR architecture, which is responsible for the PTFE fabric, adheres to similar principles. The fabrics are thoughtfully designed, recyclable, and engineered for thermal performance, thereby reducing the energy consumption and emissions associated with their production. The decommissioning of the Medina Haram Piazza, considering its size, would likely adhere to its sustainability efforts, although it is not anticipated as it is designed to last for years to come.
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