Construction Materials Research Articles

Green building development utilising modified fired clay bricks and eggshell waste

The inadequate thermal insulation of the building envelope contributes significantly to the high power consumption of air conditioners in houses. A crucial factor in raising a building’s energy efficiency involves utilizing bricks with high thermal resistance. This issue is accompanied by another critical challenge: recycling and disposing of waste in a way that is both economically and environmentally beneficial, including using it to fuel industrial growth, in order to reduce the harmful effects of waste on the environment as waste generation in our societies grows. To this end, the current study sought to assess whether integrating a specific amount of eggshell waste as CaCO3 filler within bricks consistently produces fired clay bricks with desirable thermal insulation capabilities. By systematically investigating the physicochemical and thermal characteristics of bricks doped with varying eggshell content, this work demonstrates how waste materials can be repurposed to produce sustainable construction materials with superior performance. The results highlight significant improvements in thermal conductivity, diffusivity, and effusivity, alongside favorable changes in porosity, bulk density, and mechanical strength. The XRD analysis revealed that once the firing temperature rises, a high insulation feature arises due to siliceous melt formation. EDX analysis gave important insights into the impact of eggshell dopants on the physicochemical parameters of burnt clay bricks. Compared to pristine brick, CEs7% brick constructed with clay and 7 wt% eggshell exhibited a 38.7% loss on dry shrinkage, an enhancement on average pore size of 78.8%, an apparent porosity of 52.7%, a bulk density of 8.3%, and a compressive strength of 57.5%. The reduced shrinkage enhances stability, while increased pore size and porosity improve thermal insulation, making the bricks more durable and energy-efficient. In this regard, the brick containing 10% eggshell that was fired at 1100°C possessed the greatest drop in heat conductivity (i.e., 50%), thermal diffusivity (30%), and thermal effusivity (30%) as compared to the pure one. Given the aforementioned findings, these additions hold the potential to reduce the energy required for both heating and cooling buildings. This brings us to the conclusion that combining eggshell waste to create calcium silicate makes it feasible to be utilized as a thermal insulation material, paving the way for improved construction materials’ performance and sustainability.

ҚОРШАҒАН ОРТА САПАСЫН ЖАҚСАРТУДА ЖЫЛУ ЭЛЕКТР ОРТАЛЫҒЫНЫҢ ШЫҒАРЫНДЫЛАРЫН ҚАЙТА ӨҢДЕУ ЖОЛДАРЫ

This article analyzes modern methods of recycling ash and slag waste generated by coal combustion in thermal power plants, as well as their impact on the environment. Currently, the problem of industrial and household waste is becoming increasingly urgent, with ash and slag waste being among the largest in terms of volume. These waste materials pose a risk of environmental contamination with toxic substances and heavy metals. Dust is generated in areas affected by ash dumps, and the components of the ash are washed away, leading to their infiltration into the soil and groundwater, which worsens the ecological situation. This, in turn, negatively affects plants and human health. Recycling ash and slag waste helps conserve natural resources and address ecological issues. The study conducted an analysis of the ash and slag waste from «Kentau Service» TPP-5, determining their potential for use as an ecological construction material — brick. Additionally, the physical and chemical suitability of these waste materials for brick production was tested. It was proven that recycling TPP waste is both economically and ecologically efficient.

Effective Mechanical Properties of a Composite Material Reinforced by Oil Shale Ash Particles

This study determined the elastic properties of composites and concretes reinforced with oil shale ash (OSA) particles, a byproduct of oil shale combustion in an electric power plant in Estonia (Auvere). Since 2018, OSA has no longer been classified as hazardous waste in the EU, enabling its reuse in sustainable materials. The present research examined the effect of OSA on the elastic properties of epoxy–OSA and concrete–OSA composites. The experimental results show that the elastic modulus of epoxy resin increases with an increase in the ash concentration, while it decreases in concrete with a higher OSA content. Theoretical models, including the rule of mixtures, finite element method (FEM), Mori–Tanaka method, and Halpin–Tsai method, were used to predict these properties numerically. The rule of mixtures and FEM generally overestimated the modulus for epoxy–OSA, whereas the Mori–Tanaka and Halpin–Tsai methods provided closer predictions. For concrete–OSA, the compressive strength tests followed the LVS EN 12390-3:2019 standards, with elastic modulus conversions being made via IS 456:2000 Clause 6.2.3.1, which showed a variable decrease across different strength classes. The findings highlight the potential of OSA as a reinforcing filler in construction materials, promoting environmental sustainability by repurposing industrial waste while offering mechanical benefits.

Relationships Between Common Distresses in Flexible Pavements and Physical Properties of Construction Materials Using an Ordinal Logistic Regression Model

Analytical models to predict distresses and service conditions of road pavements can greatly contribute to the development of an effective pavement management system. These models allow the transportation agencies to monitor and track the deterioration of pavements and consequently determine the needed maintenance operations to preserve the performance of the network. In this research, the pavement distresses and service conditions of the Indus Highway N-55 located in Karak district, Pakistan were examined. Distresses were identified by visual observation, and then their severity and extent were measured individually by using a Vernier caliper and a measuring scale. For each distress type, the corresponding PCR was calculated. The compaction densities of the base and wearing courses were considered as input parameters to develop an ordinal logistic regression model for two dominant distresses, namely rutting and potholes. Rutting severity and extent were divided into three levels, while pothole severity was divided into four levels. Bulk and maximum specific gravity were found to have a significant impact on the models of both distresses. The model can be used to predict their development in terms of severity and extent. The proposed formulation provides valuable insights into monitoring and predicting pavement distresses by assessing the densities of road construction materials.

Optimization of the Properties of Eco-Concrete Dispersedly Reinforced with Hemp and Flax Natural Fibers

Dispersed reinforcement of concrete with various types of plant fibers is currently a fairly popular area in the field of construction materials science. The relevance of this topic is determined by the fact that the issue has not been studied on a large scale in comparison with concrete reinforced with artificial fibers, and the fact that these types of concrete meet the requirements of the Sustainable Development Goals. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of using hemp fiber (HF) and flax fiber (FF) for the dispersed reinforcement of concrete, and to compare their efficiency and practical applicability in the construction industry. Before use, HF and FF were treated with a NaOH solution and stearic acid to increase their resistance to the aggressive alkaline environment of concrete. A total of 15 concrete compositions were made. The percentage of dispersed reinforcement for both types of fibers varied from 0.2% to 1.4%, with a step of 0.2%. The standard methods of mechanical testing and microscopy for investigation the properties of fresh and hardened concrete were applied. The optimum amount of HF in concrete was 0.6%, which provided an increase in compressive and flexural strength of 7.46% and 28.68%, respectively, and a decrease in water absorption of 13.58%. The optimum percentage of FF concrete reinforcement was 0.8%, which allowed an increase in compressive and flexural strength of 4.90% and 15.99%, respectively, and a decrease in water absorption of 10.23%. The results obtained during the experiment prove the possibility and effectiveness of the practical application of hemp and flax fibers in concrete composite technology.

Extended Material Recovery from Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Bottom Ash Using Magnetic, Eddy Current, and Density Separations

This research introduces an extended processing method for increasing the possibility of valorizing processed IBA (pr.IBA), which is currently only used as a construction material in landfill sites, considering its immense potential in valuable metal and mineral concentrations. Following a selective milling process, an extended material recovery sequence involving a magnetic, eddy current, and density separation sequence is developed. Based on the observations and outcomes explored in the present study, a substantially reliable and practical industrial approach is designed and tested to generate a cleaner mineral fraction and complementarily collect valuable metals from pr.IBA. Specifically, four enhanced valuable product streams can be anticipated, output mineral, high-magnetic, low-magnetic, and non-ferrous, which can be further utilized as alternative materials for cement clinker and concrete production coupled with iron, copper, and aluminum recovery in a conventional recycling operation. Therefore, in addition to introducing an additional perspective and moving one step closer to closing the waste management loop, this proposed method offers the opportunity to save primary materials and reduce carbon emissions by providing valuable alternative secondary resources.

Life Cycle Assessment of Waste Glass Geopolymerization for the Production of Sustainable Construction Materials

Replacing conventional materials with new recycled materials is one of the goals of sustainable development, as it promotes the creation of environmentally friendly products while reducing the amount of waste to be treated. A common recyclable waste stream associated with urban living is waste glass, which typically comes from packaging or product containers. Although most of this stream can be reused and/or recycled, it is worth exploring alternative uses, especially for areas with high fluctuations in waste glass production. An example would be the sudden increase in waste glass in tourist areas during the high season. To this end, the present work presents the results from the life cycle assessment of waste glass geopolymerization for the production of cement tiles. The methodology includes the estimation of mass and energy balances by dividing the whole process into several sub-processes (NaOH addition, energy consumption, etc.). The NaOH addition was found to be the most burden-intensive process, with a total damage of 9 × 10−5 DALY per ton of waste glass in the human health category, while a minor contribution in all damage categories was attributed to process electricity demands (7.7 to 19.4%). By comparing the geopolymerization process with conventional recycling, an environmental benefit of 20 mPt and 26 kg CO2 per ton of waste glass was demonstrated, indicating the process’s expediency. The present study is a valuable tool for the up-scaling of processes towards a circular economy.

Mechanism of Crack Development and Strength Deterioration in Controlled Low-Strength Material in Dry Environment

The continuous expansion at the urban scale has produced a lot of construction waste, which has created increasingly serious problems in the environmental, social, and economic realms. Reuse of this waste can address these problems and is critical for sustainable development. In recent years, construction waste has been extensively recycled and transformed into highly sustainable construction materials called controlled low-strength materials (CLSMs) in backfilling projects, pile foundation treatment, roadbed cushion layers, and other applications. However, CLSMs often experience shrinkage and cracking due to water loss influenced by climatic temperature factors, which can pose safety and stability risks in various infrastructures. The purpose of this paper was to study the mechanism of crack formation and strength degradation in a CLSM in a dry environment and to analyze the deterioration process of the CLSM at the macro- and micro-scales by using image analysis techniques and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The test results show that with the drying time, the CLSM samples had different degrees of cracks and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) decreases, and increasing the content of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) reduced the number of cracks. The addition of bentonite with the same OPC content also slowed down the crack development and reduced the loss of UCS. The development of macroscopic cracks and UCS is caused by the microscopic scale, and the weak areas are formed due to water loss in dry environments and the decomposition of gel products, and the integrity of the microstructure is weakened, which is manifested as strength deterioration. This research provides a novel methodology for the reuse of construction waste, thereby offering a novel trajectory for the sustainable progression of construction projects.

Mechanistic Modelling for Optimising LTES-Enhanced Composites for Construction Applications

This study addresses the optimisation of latent heat thermal energy storage (LTES) composites for construction applications by utilising mechanistic modelling. The work focuses on enhancing the performance of phase change materials (PCMs) incorporated into expanded perlite (EP) for building energy efficiency by delivering sorption capacity models analysing factors such as particle size, surface area, and pore volume, particularly highlighting the performance of EP as a PCM carrier due to its high porosity (around 90%) and large surface area (up to 20 m2/g), which allowed for improved energy storage density and heat transfer. Key challenges in the integration of PCMs into construction materials, such as limited thermal conductivity and leakage during phase transitions, are explored. The model evaluates key parameters affecting sorption, such as temperature, pressure, and surface characteristics of the materials. The results indicate that while higher temperatures enhance sorption in larger pores, they reduce efficiency in smaller ones, leading to a slight overall decrease in total sorption capacity at elevated temperatures. The sorption capacity of water is a value slightly above 2 kg/kg EP, while the PCM RT27 exhibits a sorption capacity of 0.59 kg/kg EP. These results represent the optimised sorption performance in terms of temperature between 40 °C and 50 °C. Furthermore, applying vacuum impregnation is investigated in relation to the pore radii of the EP particles. Larger pore radii show a noticeable improvement in overall sorption capacity from 0.59 kg/kg EP to 0.68 kg/kg EP as pressure increases, especially beyond 4 × 105 Pa. The contribution of inter-particle sorption remains stable, while the intra-particle sorption in large pores drives the overall capacity upward. The findings convey significant findings in optimising the design of LTES-enhanced composites for improved energy storage, thermal regulation, and structural integrity in building applications.

TOPSIS prefabricated building construction evaluation based on interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy numbers based on prospect theory

Prefabricated buildings have a series of advantages such as high efficiency, energy savings, and environmental protection, and are being strongly promoted by the Chinese government. However, due to the late start of prefabricated buildings in China, the installation process of prefabricated components is relatively complex, leading to difficulties in quality and safety control. A novel evaluation methodology integrating the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) with prospect theory and interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy numbers (IVPFNs) is proposed. Fully considering the subjective value perceptions of decision-makers when faced with losses and gains, a risk evaluation model is established based on different types of decision-makers. This model is then compared with the weight correction coefficient model from a balanced perspective to prevent bias caused by over-reliance on decision-makers’ subjective preferences. This study establishes an assessment index system for assembly construction risk, considering personnel, materials, machinery, management, and technology factors. By merging prospect theory with the TOPSIS method, the application of Pythagorean fuzzy numbers is refined, enhancing the group decision-making process for evaluating risks in prefabricated construction projects. On the other hand, the prospect theory approach can focus on the actual psychological state of managers during decision-making, addressing the research gap concerning the impact of managers’ psychological states on the evaluation process. The study identifies critical risk factors and suggests specific risk management strategies to improve the risk mitigation capabilities of construction entities, offering a structured approach to enhancing the efficiency and safety of prefabricated construction projects.

I-80- PDR, Concrete Overlay, and Sustainable Concrete Mix Design

Constructing, maintaining and reconstructing interstate highways can be accomplished in a sustainable, cost effective manner. Sustainability is an increasingly important element in the design and construction of transportation infrastructure because of limited dollars and natural resources. Construction materials and methods can contribute greatly to the overall sustainability of a pavement. Concrete, as the most widely used construction material on the planet, has been proven time and again as one of the most sustainable and longest lasting pavement media. Other intrinsic benefits of concrete include light reflectance and reduced rolling resistance which results in improved fuel economy for the traveling public. In this paper these attributes will be explored through the experience gained during the reconstruction of a section of Interstate 80 near Park City, Utah. This section of highway was originally constructed with asphalt but after years of repair work the section has been repaved with concrete pavement. This project utilized multiple sustainable practices including partial depth recycling of the existing asphalt which was treated with cement, and a concrete overlay. I-80 proved that many pavement challenges can be solved with concrete overlays, while economizing taxpayer dollars, saving natural resources, recycling existing materials, and providing a long design life.

Sustainable Concrete Pavements with Blended Cements

Transportation infrastructure management has traditionally focused on the safety and reliability without deliberately incorporating sustainability considerations. Recently, national, state and municipal governing bodies, the engineering community and society as a whole, are realizing the enormous investment of materials, energy, capital, and social costs affiliated with infrastructure system design, construction and maintenance. Approaches to help achieve higher infrastructure sustainability and resiliency include design and construction techniques to provide longer-lasting pavements, use of recycled materials in construction, and increasing the use of supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs) and portland limestone cements in concrete mixture designs. Concrete materials manufactured with blended cements intrinsically reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing portland cement usage. In addition, blended cement concretes containing SCMs may substantially increase the pavement service life providing the most cost-effective method to reducing the economic, environmental and societal impacts (triple bottom line) of surface transportation.

Finite Element Modeling of Premature Transverse Cracking Due to Paving Adjacent Lanes Separately

Concrete pavements are often constructed by first paving the mainline followed by the shoulder some time later. It is important to factor the differences in the structure, material properties, and climatic conditions between the mainline and the shoulder into design and construction; otherwise, premature cracking can develop. This study uses finite element modeling to analyze the causes of the transverse cracking in the newly paved shoulder of U.S. Route 22 near Blairsville, Pennsylvania. The key factor responsible for the cracking is identified as the construction sequence causing thermal incompatibility between the mainline and the shoulder. A parametric study is then carried out to quantify the significance of many factors, such as construction sequence, material properties, pavement features and environmental conditions, on the cracking potential. A guideline is then established to prevent the future occurrence of the cracking.

Stabilization of Soil Sub-grade Using GSB Material for Construction of Pavement

The construction of roads often necessitates soil stabilization in the sub-base and sub-grade regions when the soil exhibits poor strength due to softness, swelling, or low shear strength. While compaction can enhance many soils, it may not be sufficient for expansive soils, which necessitate the use of stabilizing agents, especially when dealing with weak or expansive soils. A crucial parameter in pavement design is the California Bearing Ratio (CBR), which measures soil strength. This study aimed to enhance CBR values by incorporating granular Sub-Base (GSB) material. Laboratory tests were conducted on various soil samples to determine their geotechnical properties, including Atterberg's limits, compaction characteristics, and CBR. The results indicated that increasing the percentage of GSB led to an increase in plasticity index and maximum dry density while decreasing optimum moisture content. Notably, CBR values significantly improved with higher GSB percentages. To achieve a CBR value exceeding 5, CL soils required 12-16% GSB, while CI soils needed 8-12%. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing GSB usage in pavement design, considering soil characteristics and traffic demands. Future research could explore the use of crushed demolition aggregates and fine marble powder, as well as evaluate permeability and consolidation characteristics for long-term performance and durability. . Key Words: Granular Sub-base (GSB), Atterberg’s Limit, Plasticity Index, Compaction, CBR, Expansive Soil.

A Parametric Study on the Behavior of Arch Composite Beams Prestressed with External Tendons

Arch beams are widely used in bridge construction due to their ability to withstand much greater loads than horizontal beams. The utilization of composite construction has also increased due to its tendency to optimize the utilization of construction materials, leading to significant savings in steel costs. In this research, a detailed experiment work on a simply supported arch composite beam under a positive moment was presented; then, a numerical model was created using ABAQUS to simulate its nonlinear behavior. The beams were formed from a concrete slab attached to steel beams by means of perfobond shear connectors (PSCs). A good agreement between the model and experiment was obtained. A parametric study was developed to identify the influence of the initial prestressing, rise to span ratio, and beam length on the behavior of the arch composite beam. It was found that the presence of tendons enhances the serviceability behavior, increases the ultimate load by 40% compared to the control beam, and equilibrates the horizontal thrust of the arch, even in the absence of initial prestressing. In addition, the beam exhibits a clear tied arch behavior due to the large eccentricity as the rise-to-depth ratio increases. Furthermore, the prestress force was found to be more effective in the longer span and the incremental stress in tendons more remarkable.

Integration of Thermo-Responsive Materials Applied to Bio-Inspired Structures

This paper investigates the integration of thermo-responsive materials into bio-inspired structures, combining biomimicry and adaptive technologies in architecture. A problem-based biomimetic approach and a morphological analogy with the plate-type snowflake—known for its lightness, transparency, and crystalline organisation—were adopted to develop the geometry of an architectural pavilion. This research highlights glass as a main constructive material, analysing the potential of thermochromic film and the hydrogel technique, both inserted in the context of thermo-responsiveness. In this regard, the focus is on adaptations to temperature changes, exploring how these materials can alter their properties in response to solar incidence, offering solutions for energy efficiency, thermal regulation, and environmental adaptation. The pavilion demonstrates that this integration is feasible, and this is supported by an interdisciplinary approach that combines materials science, bio-inspired design, and practical experimentation. It also highlights biomimicry’s fundamental role as a tool for guiding the development of innovative architectural geometries, while thermo-responsive materials expand the possibilities for creating structures that are adaptable to temperature variations and solar exposure. The conclusion points to the applicability and relevance of this combination, highlighting the transformative potential of thermo-responsive materials in architectural projects, especially in the development of lightweight, transparent, and environmentally responsive structures.

Potential use of the Maroua (Far North, Cameroon) river sand as construction materials and degreasing agent for earthenware ceramics

There is an enhnaced accessibility of sand, which may be suitable for concrete and ceramic in different regions of Cameroon and the Far North in particular. Hence, this paper aims at assessing the properties of Maroua river sand and its prospects for use in building and probably in ceramic. Fieldwork and laboratory analyses have been performed to elicit their properties using standard methods of physical-textural analysis and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. Gradation parameters have been deduced mathematically.The results indicate that the grain size distribution varies slightly from one site to another. Organic matter content is relatively poor; it ranges from 0.26 to 0.67%. Sand equivalent (87.00–98.60) and fineness modulus (2.4–2.91) change to very clean and medium sand, respectively. The coefficient of uniformity and coefficient of curvature varies from 2.39 to 3.37 and 0.40 to 0.99, respectively, so it can be classified as a tightly-grained material. The most abundant oxides in the five samples are SiO2, Al2O3, and K2O, while Fe2O3, MgO, TiO2, and P2O5 are in small amounts except for CaO and Na2O which are present in high amounts in NS1, and NS2 samples. Globally, the studied sands have given satisfactory results, and they are suitable for use in concrete. Chemically, these sands can be used in the production of terracotta (pottery, bricks, tiles, and stoneware) as degreasers and fluxes, given the high percentage of K2O suitable for this group of ceramics.

Analisis Penggunaan Sistem Manajemen Mutu Iso/Iec 17025:2017 pada Laboratorium Pengujian Material Konstruksi Kabupaten Badung

Accreditation of ISO/IEC 17025: 2017 for laboratory is carried out to guarantee the testing quality conducted by a laboratory. The Badung Regency Construction Materials Testing Laboratory is one of the government laboratories that has implemented the SNI ISO/IEC 17025:2008 quality management system and has been accredited by KAN (National Accreditation Committee). To be able to continue accreditation from KAN, the laboratory plans to take acreditation of ISO / IEC 17025 version 2017. This study aims to analyze the implementation of Laboratory quality management system that is measured according to the clauses of ISO / IEC 17025: 2017 and to develop strategies that can be performed to improve the implemention of ISO / IEC 17025: 2017. In phase I, data collection was conducted through interviews using checklist developed based on ISO / IEC 17025: 2017. The implementation was assesed based on of the quality standards ISO / IEC 17025: 2017 (clause 4 to clause 8). The results showed that the implementation of ISO / IEC 17025: 2017 was in good category with score of 75,91%. While, atphase II, data collection was conducted through Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to develop strategies that can be performed by the company to succeed the implementation of ISO / IEC 17025: 2017. The identified strategies include rearranging documents of the laboratory task and authority of laboratory personnel related to organizational structure, responsibility, training of lab personnel, implementation of laboratory quality management systems, conducting risk analysis to determine risk management actions in each work procedure so that work processes can be more efficient to produce products and services according to requirements that meet customer satisfaction.

Metal-organic frameworks encapsulating gold nanoclusters and carbon dots for ratiometric fluorescent detection of formaldehyde in real food samples, construction materials and indoor environments.

Anovel fluorescence sensing nanoplatform (CDs/AuNCs@ZIF-8) encapsulating carbon dots (CDs) and gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) within a zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) was developed for ratiometric detection of formaldehyde (FA) in the medium of hydroxylamine hydrochloride (NH2OH·HCl). The nanoplatform exhibited pink fluorescence due to the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect of AuNCs and the internal filtration effect (IFE) between AuNCs and CDs. Upon reaction between NH2OH·HCl and FA, a Schiff base formed via aldehyde-diamine condensation, releasing hydrochloric acid. The acid triggered the degradation of ZIF-8, releasing CDs and AuNCs, and thereby shifting the fluorescence to blue as the CDs disperse. The nanoplatform demonstrated high sensitivity (LOD of 0.26-2.19 μM), exceptional selectivity, and rapid response time (<1 min) toward FA. Additionally, test strips and hydrogel films integrated with smartphones were prepared for on-site and visual detection of FA. The portable and smartphone-assisted test strips effectively detected indoor FA gas, while wearable and intelligent hydrogel films provided reliable surface measurements of FA on fruits and vegetables. Real sample analyses achieved satisfactory FA recoveries (99.06-115.30%) with relative standard deviations (RSD) from 1.86% to 3.81%. The innovative sensing nanoplatform served as a promising approach for FA detection in food, construction materials, and indoor air quality, offering both analytical accuracy and convenient visualization.

The Traditional Dwelling of the Mordvins: On the History of Classification and Transformations

Ethno-cultural tradition has historically determined the type of dwelling to be constructed for a relatively long period of time. However, in response to changing circumstances, the type of residential building can also change significantly. The lack of a comprehensive analysis of the history of classification and transformation of the Mordovian dwellings in the indigenous territory of residence and in other regions of Russia represents a significant obstacle to scientific research in this field. In the context of the current surge in interest in ethnotourism and the preservation of cultural heritage, this scientific research is particularly relevant for younger generations. Information on the history of formation and classification (by the way of its vertical development, by horizontal layout and by the method of construction) of the traditional Mordovian dwelling in the Mordovian Territory / Republic of Mordovia, Volga region, Siberia was collected by the author both in the Republic of Mordovia and in ethnographic expeditions in Tyumen, Kemerovo, Chelyabinsk, Sverdlovsk, Kurgan region, Altai, Krasnoyarsk Territory and other regions of Russia (1991–2018). By vertical development dwellings of the distant past can be classified as following forms: a hut; a dugout and a semi-dugout; a bathhouse; an izba; wooden and adobe houses. According to the horizontal layout the dwellings can be classified as single-chamber, two-chamber, three-chamber dwellings, etc. According to the material and method of construction they are either made of log (mainly), clay, adobe or bricks, due to natural, economic and other factors. Outside Mordovia, Mordovian dwellings differ by material: wood, clay, stone, adobe houses; and by structure: log cabins and crosses (the latter is most common in the villages of Kalinovka, Pokrovka of the Sorokinsky district of the Tyumen region). Dwelling complexes near Mordovia in settlements in the Mordovian region were constantly changing. This was facilitated by the rise in the material well-being of rural residents. The share of two- and three-chamber housing increased with time. The process was faster in towns, more prosperous settlements, settlements located near highways, railways, industrial centers, while in the villages where the population came into contact with urban culture less often, this transition was slower. It would be inaccurate to speak of original and special Mordovian dwellings these days. The Mordvins have been living in next to the Russians for many centuries, their types of economy and building traditions are very similar. The housing of the Mordovian settlers are now largely indistinguishable from those of the surrounding population. The characteristics identified are more indicative of regional than ethnic differences.