Ferrocement

Although ferrocement is not strictly a 'sustainable' technology as it uses cement and steel, it nevertheless employs them in a highly efficient and cost-effective manner. Ferrocement is a thin cement mortar laid over wire mesh, which acts as a reinforcement. It is relatively cheap, strong and durable, and the basic technique is easily acquired. Ferrocement in Auroville is used, among other things, in the construction of roof channels, doors, water tanks, latrines, slabs, various form works and biogas plants.

The Auroville Building Centre is manufacturing these elements, and running regular training programmes in ferrocement techniques for masons and master masons.

A video on ferrocement, 'The Most with the Least', has been made by CSR with the support of HUDCO, and is used in training programmes all over India.

Enquiries to Auroville Building Centre - Ferrocement Unit

AVBC is the main training organisation in ferrocement for training of trainers of the Building Centre Network in India.
A collaboration has also started with the Council of Architecture to train architects in ferrocement technology (see training calendar).

Publications on ferrocement applications are available on request against payment.

Training programmes in collaboration with the Council of Architecture to explore the issues involved are organised twice a year. The workshops 'Towards Sustainable Habitats' are conducted at CSR for teachers in architecture and young practicing architects. See training programmes.

Selected list of buildings / houses in Auroville incorporating appropriate architecture features:

• CSR campus

• Visitors Centre

• Solar Kitchen

• Samasti community

• Prarthna community

• Prayatna community

• Kindergarten

• Verite Multipurpose Hall

• Tibetan Pavilion