Skip to main content
Research hero

Research

Discover more about research and development projects in the world of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) led by Irish higher education institutions and other research-performing organisations, alongside a showcase of research activity across the country, highlighting what is being done to drive new innovation and workforce development in Irish construction.

Taking MMC Research to the Construction Site and Beyond

The MMC Research Group at University College Dublin (UCD), spearheaded by Dr Daniel McCrum, is leading the innovations behind Modern Methods of Construction (MMC).  

Headshot of a person in a suit, standing indoors with a blurred background.

Research showcase

  • Construct Innovate logo with text: "Alternative Irish-based materials suitable as cementitious binders"
    Apr 2026

    Alternative Irish-Based Materials Suitable as Cementitious Binders

    Dr Niall Holmes (Technological University Dublin)
    Developing alternative cements goes beyond environmental concerns; it also has economic and strategic dimensions. Innovation in binder technology could position the Irish cement sector at the forefront of sustainable material export markets and reduce reliance on imported cementitious products. This research underscores a gap in identifying new locally available or engineered alternatives that can sustain and expand low-carbon cement production in Ireland.
    View Report on constructinnovate.ie
  • Logo for Construct Innovate with "3DREDO" project title for 3D-printed concrete reinforcement.
    Feb 2026

    3DREDO: Development and 3D Printing of Three-Dimensional Reinforcement from Waste Composites for Concrete Structures

    Dr Pouyan Ghabezi, Dr Alireza Rahimi (University of Galway)
    3DREDO is an initiative that aims to harness this opportunity and develop three-dimensional reinforcement systems using the 3D printing technique from recycled polymer and composite waste. The broad objective is to improve the ductility, fracture mechanics, and strength properties of the cementitious matrix while following the circular economy and the Ireland National Research Centre for Construction Technology and Innovation themes.
    View Report on sites-eu1.com
  • Logo and cover page for Home Performance Pathway Technical Manual v1.0.
    Feb 2026

    Home Performance Pathway Technical Manual

    Brian Crowley, Johanna Varghese, Pat Barry, John Fingleton (Irish Green Building Council) & Construct Innovate
    This is the technical manual for the Home Performance Pathway certification process, designed to provide a progressive pathway towards building skills for Home Performance Index certification. The purpose of this manual is to support the assessment of new homes in line with the certification processes and procedures as set out by the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC); and in doing so allow the IGBC to make informed and measured certification decisions and approvals.
    View Report on sites-eu1.com
  • Cover slide with the title “Towards Greener 3D Printing: A Performance Evaluation of Silica Fume-Modified Low-Carbon Concrete ” and blue geometric design elements on the right.
    Oct 2025

    Towards Greener 3D Printing: A Performance Evaluation of Silica Fume-Modified Low-Carbon Concrete

    James Bradshaw, Swathi Balasubramanian, Wen Si, Mehran Khan, Ciaran McNally (University College Dublin)
    This study investigates the durability challenges of 3D-printed concrete (3DPC) and examines the effect of silica fume (SF) on its performance, focusing on mechanical properties and selected durability tests as key indicators of mix suitability for 3D printing applications.
    View Report on mdpi.com
  • Logo promoting timber research and innovation in Ireland with green forest background.
    Aug 2025

    Pioneering Research and Innovation for Timber and Wood‑Based Products in Ireland

    Dr Patrick McGetrick (National University of Galway), Department of Food, Agriculture and the Marine
    This publication presents an overview of research and innovation on timber and wood-based products in Ireland over recent years, showcasing the significant progress achieved through collaborative national and international efforts. It aims to facilitate an understanding of the existing knowledge base on Irish wood products to advance research and support of timber as a construction material.
    View Report on gov.ie
  • Illustration titled “Building a Circular Ireland – A Roadmap for a Resource Efficient Circular Built Environment,” featuring the map of Ireland within a multicoloured circular graphic, surrounded by icons of buildings, cranes, vehicles, wind turbines, and cyclists, symbolising sustainability and circular economy in construction.
    May 2025

    Building a Circular Ireland

    Irish Green Building Council
    The approach of the ‘Building a Circular Ireland’ roadmap (2025-2040) is to focus on strategies for prevention and reuse, better design, resource efficiency, and the added value of innovative business models.
    View Report on igbc.ie