Masonry walls constitute the interface between the building's interior and the outdoor environment. Masonry walls are traditionally composed of fired-clay bricks (solid or perforated) or blocks (concrete or earth-based), but in the past (and even in the present) they were often associated as needing an extra special thermal and acoustical insulation layer. However, over more recent years investigations on thermal and acoustical features has led to the development of new improved bricks and blocks that no longer need these insulation layers. Traditional masonry units (fired-clay bricks,...

Start-Up Creation: The Smart Eco-efficient Built Environment provides a state-of-the-art review on high-technology applications and explains how these can be applied to improve the eco-efficiency of the built environment. Divided into four main parts, the book explains the key factors behind successful startup companies that grow from university research, including the development of a business plan, the importance of intellectual property, necessary entrepreneurial skills, and innovative thinking.

Part Two presents the latest research findings on nano and bio-based...