In pursuit of advancing sustainable construction solutions, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) participated in mounting an exhibit at PHILCONSTRUCT Visayas, held at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino from June 20-22, 2024. 

The exhibit highlights innovations and developed construction materials from the DOST-GIA funded Program, "Constructions and Buildings Using Indigenous Locally Developed Natural Textiles Program (CoBUILDTex)." 

The CoBUILDTex Program utilized indigenous textile fibers to create products for the construction industry. Natural textile fibers were blended with inorganic or cementitious matrices to produce composite materials used in developing freeform concrete structures and envelopes, such as outdoor furniture and canopies. These textile fibers were also developed into yarns and grids that act as natural fiber reinforcements. Additionally, a nonwoven fabric-based formwork was developed to create free-forming and curved structures. 

Nonwoven panels made from bamboo and banana are also showcased at the event. These smart indoor installation materials aim to improve indoor environmental quality in confined spaces with thermal and acoustic absorption properties, serving as insulators for walls, roofs, or even acting as lighting diffusers. The project also developed an assemblage of fabric with carbon-based compounds for electromagnetic shielding purposes. 

The DOST exhibit is facilitated by DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD). The exhibit is open until today, June 22, 2024.