Biosourced materials for resilient construction in seismic regions: A Bibliometric and Scientific Mapping Analysis

Structure and Materials Laboratory, National School of Architecture, Rabat, Morocco

^* Islam Gharbi: islamgharbi.archi@gmail.com

Abstract

The growing intensity and frequency of earthquakes, combined with the need for a shift toward sustainable building techniques, has ignited interest in building materials biosourced from renewable biological resources. These materials are environmentally beneficial; beyond their sustainability, recent research has investigated their dynamic and mechanical properties, revealing their potential in enhancing structural seismic resilience. This article offers a bibliometric and scientific mapping analysis of global research patterns on biosourced materials used in construction in seismically active regions. Leveraging the Web of Science and Scopus databases, analysis tools such as Bibliometrix, we establish thematic clusters, leading research organizations, keyword co-occurrences, and emerging research fronts. These point towards growing convergence of seismic engineering, vernacular architecture, and life cycle assessment with sustainability, and increasing attention towards natural fiber-reinforced composites and earthen systems. It also determines areas where research is required, namely the standardization of test methods, the inclusion of seismic performance into life cycle assessments, and scaling up biosourced solutions in urban infrastructure. This study advances knowledge at the nexus of green material science and disaster-resistant architecture through a transdisciplinary approach integrating customary knowledge, virtual design, and intelligent urban planning, positioning biosourced materials as effective substitutes to enhance seismic resilience.