Biomaterial
Within The Green Guide to Specification (4th edition), biomaterials are classed as naturally-derived construction materials (ie those originating from plant or animal sources) providing both structural and non-structural functions within the building fabric. Biomass is a biological material used as a fuel. This is often used to mean plant-based material, but biomass can equally apply to both animal and vegetable-derived materials.
For example, sawn softwood timber used in the construction of timber frames or as studwork is categorised as biomaterial due to the structural function it is fulfilling. However, wood such as poplar or willows grown specifically to generate electricity or produce heat through direct incineration is classed as biomass.
Biomaterials most commonly used in UK construction are solid timber, timber products such as wood-based panels, cellulose, plant fibres and animal fibres.
Ref Environmental impact of biomaterials and biomass (FB 67). https://www.brebookshop.com/details.jsp?id=327368
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
HSE simplified advice for installers of stone worktops
After company fined for repeatedly failing to protect workers.
Co-located with 10th year of UK Construction Week.
How orchards can influence planning and development.
Time for knapping, no time for napping
Decorative split stone square patterns in facades.
A practical guide to the use of flint in design and architecture.
Designing for neurodiversity: driving change for the better
Accessible inclusive design translated into reality.
RIBA detailed response to Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report
Briefing notes following its initial 4 September response.
Approved Document B: Fire Safety from March
Current and future changes with historical documentation.
A New Year, a new look for BSRIA
As phase 1 of the BSRIA Living Laboratory is completed.
A must-attend event for the architecture industry.
Caroline Gumble to step down as CIOB CEO in 2025
After transformative tenure take on a leadership role within the engineering sector.
RIDDOR and the provisional statistics for 2023 / 2024
Work related deaths; over 50 percent from construction and 50 percent recorded as fall from height.
Solar PV company fined for health and safety failure
Work at height not properly planned and failure to take suitable steps to prevent a fall.
The term value when assessing the viability of developments
Consultation on the compulsory purchase process, compensation reforms and potential removal of hope value.
Trees are part of the history of how places have developed.