Modified biopolymers from waste materials for the sustainable optimization of building materials

The construction industry is responsible for around 40% of global CO2 emissions. Cement and brick production is one of the main sources.

Four aspects contribute to improving the sustainability of building materials: 1) the use of renewable materials, 2) the extraction of materials from waste materials, 3) improved material properties and 4) optimized recyclability, which is only possible to a limited extent with conventional building materials.

At Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences, the interdisciplinary research group headed by project leader Prof. Dr. Gregor Grun is pursuing two goals: 1) to replace fossil-based binders with biopolymers and natural fibers and 2) to increase the strength and durability of clay and concrete with their help. 

To this end, biopolymers are first extracted from leather, natural fiber and wool waste and modified for use in building materials. Their suitability in unfired clay bricks, concrete components and for consolidating soils will then be investigated. Finally, strength and durability will be optimized in comparison to conventional building materials.

The project is accompanied by life cycle analyses and life cycle costing (LCA/LCC).

By bundling the various competencies of Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences, the project supports the establishment of a new research field between (bio)chemistry, textile technology, civil engineering and sustainability analysis, which deals with the use of biopolymers from waste streams for innovative building materials.