Building blocks from algae, tiles from recycled ceramics, and glass from clam shells. What's new in innovative materials

Developing a new material today is not only about inventing something new, but also about knowing how to combine what already exists, recycle, reduce emissions, and achieve an effective result.

Bio-concrete from Prometheus Materials is based on blue-green microalgae. When they come into contact with water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight, they produce a material similar to a coral reef. Aggregate is then added, and the alternative to concrete is ready. The strength of the material is about 13.8 MPa, while carbon emissions during production are reduced by 90%.

Research and testing are currently being carried out in a pilot project, and in the near future the company is preparing to release a whole line of products based on its patented technology: building blocks, construction mixes, and roofing coatings.

The architectural structures and structural engineering research group at the Balearic Islands Institute took on the challenge of reusing ceramics as a recycled product so that they could be given a new life cycle.

The result was an aggregate of 85% crushed ceramics plus recycled stone, with the remaining 15% stabilized using white cement.

This material has high hygroscopicity and strength along with a low carbon footprint. It is suitable for use in construction and renovation, with the only limitation being heavy loads. Paving stones made from it can therefore serve as an environmentally friendly surface for pedestrian walkways and non-motorized traffic.

The basis for the glass in Lulu Harrison's project was the quagga, a clam that, because of human activity, has spread into areas outside its natural habitat and is displacing native species.