Utilizing Nanocellulose derived from plants and algae in Building Materials

Date: Feb 28 2024
Country: Finland
Plant Name:
Algae
Plants
Residue Name:
Nanocellulose
End Products
Construction materials
enhanced cementitious materials, Sustainable Concrete
Application
Description

This project explores the use of nanocellulose, a sustainable material derived from natural sources like plants, bacteria, and algae, as an additive in building materials such as cement. Nanocellulose enhances the mechanical properties, durability, and sustainability of cement by reducing pores, improving moisture resistance, and increasing strength. The project aims to reduce the environmental impact of construction materials by replacing traditional cement ingredients with nanocellulose, ultimately contributing to carbon reduction in the construction industry.

Pathway Description:

It involves converting cellulose into nanocellulose through physical, chemical, and mechanical treatments, such as pulping, bleaching, and sonication. The nanocellulose is then added to cementitious materials as nanofibrils, nanocrystals, or filaments to improve the mechanical properties, durability, and stability of the cement.

Tags: Nanocellulose Building Materials EcoFriendly Cement Additives Sustainable Concrete Alternatives
Feedstock
Types of Feedstock
Secondary agricultural residue
Name
Nanocellulose
Form
Nano-fibrils, Nano-crystals, Filaments
Commercials
Low-cost when derived from agricultural waste
Characteristics
High strength
Pathways
Chemical
bleaching
Mechanical
pulping, sonication
Stakeholders
Research/ Innovators
VTT Technical Research Centre