The alternative building materials and technologies for individual housing in coastal Karnataka, India

Abstract

The various research organizations in the country and world wide are in continuous investigation to develop different alternative materials and technologies. In the development of alternative materials, it is always emphasized to use locally available materials like mud, fibre, powder, stone etc. or a mixture of them to produce a different product to be used in modern day construction. This paper likes to give an insight into the various types of technologies developed by these Organizations and implemented right from the basic materials like building blocks to finished roofing elements in coastal Karnataka, India. It also discusses how these techniques are implemented and put to use for the benefit of the common man. It also enlightens the cost effectiveness and the energy efficiency that could be achieved in using these alternative materials and technologies in the region. © 2011 CAFET-INNOVA TECHNICAL SOCIETY. All rights reserved.