The Construction Industry Enters an Era of Accelerated Transformation

The construction industry is undergoing a phase of accelerated transformation, driven by the emergence of advanced materials with superior performance such as self-healing concrete, photovoltaic glass, and aerogel-based insulation. According to the European Construction Technology Platform (ECTP), these technologies can reduce operational costs by up to 40% over a building’s lifespan.

In Romania, these innovations are still in their early stages, but pilot projects in universities and high-end private constructions indicate a growing interest. The Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, for instance, tested in 2024 the use of aerogel insulation panels in residential buildings, achieving thermal performance levels 60% higher than conventional insulation materials.

However, regulatory challenges persist. Romanian construction legislation is often slow to integrate new materials into technical standards. The Federation of Construction Companies (2024) has proposed the creation of an accelerated framework for testing and certification of innovative materials, in partnership with research institutes and manufacturers.

Such measures could allow Romania to step into a new era of efficient, safe, and sustainable construction.

(Photo: Freepik)