Testing

Biochar Helps Lime-Based Building Materials Capture More Carbon While Gaining Strength

by

A carefully optimized dose of fine biochar improves both carbon dioxide uptake and compressive strength in natural hydraulic lime, offering a promising low-carbon material for historic building restoration and sustainable construction. Natural hydraulic lime has been used for centuries in masonry and restoration because it is compatible with traditional building materials and can absorb carbon … Read more

Using Seaweed as an Ingredient for 3D Printing Walls

by

An ingredient that gives ice cream a creamier texture could make natural earthen materials like clay and sand easier to 3D-print into durable structures, according to scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder. In nature, termites construct towering mounds. Wasps build intricate nests, and honeycomb worms create reef-like structures along coastlines. Rather than relying on … Read more

Using Crooked, Forked and Curved Trees in Construction

by

Crooked, forked and curved trees are often treated as second-class timber. They are considered less valuable, and not suitable for load bearing walls or support systems in building. If a tree trunk is not straight enough to become a saw log, it is frequently diverted into pulp production or burned for energy. Architect and researcher … Read more

Scientists Study Oysters to Make Stronger, Faster-Curing Cement

by

Building upon the chemistry that oysters use in miles-long reefs, scientists have found a way to create cement that is stronger and cures faster. Jonathan Wilker, a professor of chemistry in Purdue University’s College of Science has long been interested in formulating new, more sustainable and better materials. “Our lab studies materials that shellfish make,” Wilker … Read more

Mycelium Insulation Panels

by

A small home in Kenya has successfully used insulation panels grown from farm byproducts and fungal mycelium. A homeowner invested roughly 208 US dollars into these innovative mycelium building panels. This shows that affordable wall alternatives are achievable without relying on imported plastics or synthetic foams. Lightweight mycelium building panels can also reduce the number … Read more