All Hail the Mighty Carrot!
Move over spider silk, there is a new organic compound making waves in the building world. Prof. Mohamed Saafi of Lancaster University in the UK has collaborated with Scottish sustainable materials firm CelluComp to develop cellulose-based platelets from root vegetable waste, that when mixed with concrete make is significantly stronger and more resistant to corrosion. The composite material allows for 40kg less cement per cubic meter, which could significantly reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions associated with cement manufacturing. In addition, the scientists are looking to create nano platelet-based sheets that can be used to reinforce structures made from traditional concrete, thus increasing their lifespan. To read more >>