“They put algae in concrete”: a new green formula massively reduces the emissions of traditional cement

While the world is looking for solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a promising innovation emerges from the ocean: the use of algae powder in cement. This innovative approach, developed by researchers from the University of Washington in collaboration with Microsoft, could transform the way in which we design building materials. By integrating dried algae into cement, they managed to reduce the overall warming potential of this essential material by 21 %, while maintaining its structural solidity. This discovery is part of a broader approach aimed at associating natural materials with modern machine learning tools to accelerate the search for more durable constructive solutions.

When the seaweed meets cement

Cement, a central element of concrete, is one of the most polluting materials in the world, responsible for around 10 % of global CO₂ emissions. This is mainly due to the use of fossil fuels and the chemical calcination process that releases carbon. On the other hand, algae, as a carbon well, offer a promising alternative. Eleftheria roumeliassistant professor in science and materials engineering at the University of Washington, underlines the importance of this innovation: “The cement is omnipresent, but its cost for the climate is enormous. »» By integrating abundant photosynthetic algae into cement, researchers reduce emissions without using expensive treatments or compromises on performance. The use of machine learning models has predicted optimal algae and cement mixtures, reducing the development time from five years to only 28 days.

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Towards a low carbon concrete

Unlike other cement additives requiring complex treatments, green algae can be used in the form of dry powder, without costly transformation. This makes it a particularly accessible option for global production of concrete with low carbon content. By combining this natural material with machine learning, researchers are considering a system where producers can quickly develop personalized cement formulations adapted to local resources and environmental conditions. Whether with different species of algae, food waste or other bio-sourced additives, the objective is to extend this method to other varieties of algae or even food waste, thus allowing producers around the world to develop local and durable alternatives.

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Optimisation et perspectives futures

Researchers do not intend to stop there. They plan to study how the different compositions and algae structures influence the performance of cement. Their ambition is to locate production, reduce emissions and advance more quickly to a greener infrastructure. By combining natural materials such as algae with modern data tools, they hope to inaugurate a new generation of sustainable building materials. “This is an exciting step towards a new generation of sustainable building materials. »»says Roumeli with enthusiasm.

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A promising future for the construction sector

This advance, supported by Microsoft Research, highlights the potential of collaborations between researchers and technological companies to meet environmental challenges. While sustainable solutions are becoming more and more crucial, this type of innovation may well be the key to a more respectful future of the planet. The results of this research were published in the Revue Matter, and their impact could extend far beyond the laboratories, transforming the construction sector on a global scale.

While research continues to progress, a question remains: how will this innovation influence construction practices on a global scale and what will be its impact on our long-term environment?

This article is based on verified sources and the assistance of editorial technologies.

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