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Project Code [2009-PhD-SD-10]

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Project title

Irish bio-composites for building.

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Sara Pavia

Project Abstract

The aim of this project is to produce new, sustainable, carbon-negative bio-composites, made with Irish lime, hemp and industrial waste, that can partially replace existing, non-biodegradable building materials of high embodied energy and high CO2 emissions, responsible for the depletion of natural resources. Existing building materials are non-sustainable, and adversely impact the environment through consumption of non-renewable raw materials and fossil fuels, and high CO2 emissions. There is a critical need to develop sustainable alternatives to cement-based products to mitigate environmental impact. The use of the proposed bio-composite in lieu of non-sustainable materials will result in a drop in CO2 emissions, sequestration of atmospheric CO2, a reduction in the consumption of non-renewable resources and a decrease in energy consumption from material production and landfill waste. This project provides an opportunity for the construction and material industries in Ireland to diversify their product range into the growing market for sustainable building technologies that comply with the increasingly stringent European energy and environmental requirements.

Grant Approved

�94,810.00

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Waste and Resources Management

Start Date

01/10/2009

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/10/2012