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From labs to prefabs

Event
Wed 26 Apr 2017


New materials are changing the way we build our cities. Small start-up enterprises, material scientists and international research & development teams are all working on ideas that might improve the performance of our buildings and infrastructure.

This event analyses the vital steps it takes to bring ideas from research to reality and explores the possibilities for future material innovation. From designers specifying newly invented products to manufacturers changing their products for specific buildings, the industry must adapt to ensure cutting-edge ideas can readily improve our built environment.

Hear from researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison working on energy-harvesting floor technology that converts footsteps into electricity using waste and cost-effective material. Learn about the research and tests being done to bring this technology to market.

Draw from the experience of Trimo who produced a facade solution for the HOME Arts Centre in Manchester by working alongside Mecanoo Architects. They tested different materials to create a product that met the aesthetic and performance requirements of the design.

Also hear from start-up company, Polysolar who secured funding from Innovate UK to bring transparent photovoltaic glass to market.

Speakers include:

- Ernst ter Horst, project lead on HOME Arts Centre by Mecanoo and associate designate at Feilden Clegg Bradley 

- Chunhua Yao, researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

- Liam McGrath, technical manager, Trimo. Liam provided expertise and support for Mecanoo working on the HOME Arts Centre

- Hamish Watson, founder & CEO of Polysolar Ltd

This event is free to attend but booking is essential.

If you prefer to book via Eventbrite click here.

This event is the last in the SuperMaterial series and it's your last chance to see the exhibition. Arrive early and get two for one on your first wine or beer from our bar run by The Gentlemen Baristas.

This talk is part of the SuperMaterial event series, curated by The Built Environment Trust. The event programme is kindly supported by Trimo.

  

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