Aluminum in the Construction Industry

Thanks to its light weight, robustness, durability, non-toxicity, ability to take on any shape, and aesthetic appeal, this material has become the most popular and in-demand among designers and architects.

Definitely, we’re talking about aluminum. Up to 25% of all aluminum produced worldwide is used in construction.

The first building in which aluminum was widely used was the famous Empire State Building, constructed in 1931 and, until 1970, the tallest building in the world. Aluminum was used in all of the building’s main structural elements, as well as extensively in the interior.

The minimum design life of aluminum structures is 80 years. At the same time, aluminum can be used in any climatic conditions and retains its properties within a temperature range of -80°C to +300°C. Aluminum structures are not prone to collapse in fires, and at low temperatures, this metal becomes even stronger. An equally, if not more, important quality of aluminum is its light weight.

That is why aluminum is used today in the construction of high-rise buildings and skyscrapers — just imagine how much they would weigh if, for example, steel was used, how deep the foundation would have to be laid, and how much this would increase the cost of the entire building. Besides, working with lightweight structures is easier, faster, more convenient.

Skyscrapers are undoubtedly the hallmark of aluminum in modern architecture. Their fully glass walls — also known as translucent facades — consist of a structure made of glass and aluminum frames. They have become widespread worldwide because they make buildings significantly more energy-efficient from an economic standpoint.

Not resting on their laurels, scientists are exploring new possibilities for using aluminum as a primary construction material.