R+D Studio designs the world’s first carbon-neutral modular permanent defense for the Indian army

The structure uses 100% recycled recycled material consisting of foundry dust, plastic waste and zero natural materials.

Project: Permanent Defence

Location:
India

Architects:
R + D Studio

Typology:
Adaptive Architecture/ Modular / Prototypes

Area: 125f²

Year: 2023

The Indian Army is ranked amongst the largest armies in the world. Its personnel frequently endure harsh weather conditions in isolated regions for extended periods. This occasionally has even led to serious injuries and even death. The 2 Engineer Regiment of the Chinar Corps, Indian Army engaged the India-based multi-disciplinary firm, R+D Studio to design and implement a pilot outpost at 14,000 feet near Razdan Pass, in the northern front of Jammu & Kashmir to improve the situation.

R+D Studio’s initial visits helped them to understand the situation and make observations about the current scenario. They noticed that sandbags are often used for construction, insulation, and security. This inspired the team to come up with the idea of Silica Composite Hollow Blocks for the design. The 3″ x 9″ x 6″ Silica Composite Hollow Blocks (SCHB) are made from 100% recycled material consisting of foundry dust single-use/multi-use plastic waste and zero natural materials. The patented design also offers an alternative solution to the ‘Last Mile’ problem that the army forces often face in remote and inaccessible areas, where the material must be carried by either mules or porters. These blocks are made of a proprietary composite material that can withstand three times more load compared to clay bricks, ACC, or CMU blocks. The hollow blocks are ideal in terms of weight at 7.5 kg per block and are strong enough to endure wear and tear.

“The world today is in a situation, where innovation in building materials is not just an idea but an obligation.”

Shridhar Rao, Partner R+D Studio & Co-founder GREEN बनाना

The PD (Permanent Defense) is constructed incrementally, with each layer being installed after the hollow blocks have been completely compacted and filled with earth. The earth keeps the temperature differential between the interior and exterior comfortable. Additionally, a specialized IRHS Heating plate (Infra-Red Heating System) is placed inside the space to provide heating for this PD to stay warm during winter nights when the temperature drops as low as -20 degrees Celsius. The blocks’ ability to withstand enemy fire is another significant benefit. The compacted soil filling layer makes the SCHB wall impenetrable. The blocks of the PD can be recycled again for another purpose after its use is over.

For every PD unit, the design will be able to recycle 4,674 kilograms of discarded plastic and 10,906 kg of waste silica.

Based in Gurgaon, India, R+D Studio is involved in research in the field of material science and has also initiated the startup venture GREEN बनाना in the country.