A new construction method featuring LEGO-like bricks made from a renewable composite material took first place for building innovations at the 2024 JEC Composites Innovation Awards in Paris, France.
RENCO USA's RENCO MCFR (mineral composite fiber reinforced) building system is composed of interlocking molded blocks similar to LEGO bricks. According to the maker, the system surpasses concrete in strength, reduces costs significantly, and allows for rapid construction. Made with recycled glass fibers, resin, and stone, the composite material is certified to withstand Category 5 hurricanes.
Following more than 12 years of research and development, RENCO completed its inaugural apartment complex in Palm Springs, Fla., last November. No specialized workers or heavy machinery are required to build with the blocks that are stronger but 75% lighter than concrete.
In Palm Springs, 11 unskilled workers, following color-coded plans, assembled each three-story building in about eight weeks.
More on the RENCO building system (from RENCO USA's website):
RENCO MCFR is a state-of-the-art structural building system of interlocking composite building units of various types and sizes of blocks, columns, beams, joists, headers, decking, connectors, etc. These products are all adhesively joined (chemically bonded) to form monolithic structures.
The RENCO Structural Building System has been evaluated in ANSI certified laboratories to ASTM standards for structural performance, physical characteristics, and fire resistance. After thorough evaluation, IAPMO-UES approved and issued its Evaluation Report to permit the use of RENCO Structural Building System under the IBC (International Building Code).
The RENCO Structural Building System currently can include up to five (5) story structures. Through continued research and development, expanded approvals are in process, with full approval to build up to eight (8) stories expected by the end of 2024. As 95% of all Americans live in 8 stories or less, we believe this next level of approval will open an incredible amount of opportunity for use of this revolutionary product.
Related Stories
Healthcare Facilities | Dec 15, 2021
MEP design considerations for rural hospitals
Rural hospitals present unique opportunities and challenges for healthcare facility operators. Oftentimes, the infrastructure and building systems have not been updated for years and require significant improvements in order to meet today’s modern medical demands. Additionally, as these smaller, more remote hospitals are acquired by larger regional and national healthcare systems, the first step by new ownership is often to update and rehabilitate the building. But how can this be done thoughtfully, economically, and efficiently in ways that allow the engineering and facility staff to adapt to the changes? And how can the updates accurately reflect the specific needs of rural communities and the afflictions with which these areas most commonly face?
Sponsored | Glass and Glazing | Oct 1, 2021
Seizing the Daylight with BIPV Glass
Glass has always been an idea generator. Now, it’s also a clean energy generator.
Resiliency | Aug 19, 2021
White paper outlines cost-effective flood protection approaches for building owners
A new white paper from Walter P Moore offers an in-depth review of the flood protection process and proven approaches.
Architects | Aug 5, 2021
Lord Aeck Sargent's post-Katerra future, with LAS President Joe Greco
After three years under the ownership of Katerra, which closed its North American operations last May, the architecture firm Lord Aeck Sargent is re-establishing itself as an independent company, with an eye toward strengthening its eight practices and regional presence in the U.S.
Wood | Jun 10, 2021
Three AEC firms launch a mass timber product for quicker school construction
TimberQuest brand seeks to avoid overinvestment in production that has plagued other CLT providers.
Building Technology | Jun 1, 2021
Orro Announces Google Nest Integration for the Orro Switch
Orro, creators of the professional-grade top-of-the-line Orro Smart Living System, today announced the integration of Nest products to Orro. As a certified partner in Google’s Device Access program, this latest Orro integration allows homeowners to have seamless control and access to Nest thermostats and doorbells from any Orro Switch throughout the home – creating a single unified smart home system with advanced, intelligent ambient control.
Coronavirus | Mar 11, 2021
The Weekly show, March 11, 2021: 5 building products for COVID-related conditions, and AI for MEP design
This week on The Weekly show, BD+C editors speak with AEC industry leaders about building products and systems that support COVID-related conditions, and an AI tool that automates the design of MEP systems.
AEC Tech | Mar 4, 2021
The Weekly show, March 4, 2021: Bringing AI to the masses, and Central Station Memphis hotel
This week on The Weekly show, BD+C editors speak with AEC industry leaders about the award-winning Central Station Memphis hotel reconstruction project, and how Autodesk aims to bring generative design and AI tools to the AEC masses.
Building Tech | Feb 17, 2021
PCL Construction introduces The PURE Portal for quickly sanitizing surfaces
The solution uses FAR-UV light technology.
Contractors | Dec 4, 2020
‘Speed to market’ defines general contractor activities in 2020
Contractors are more receptive than ever to ways that help get projects done faster.
