SciTransfer
ATRIUM · Project

Eco-friendly bio-based construction materials using hemp and mushroom-based biotechnology

constructionTestedTRL 5

Imagine turning leftover hemp crops and mushroom roots into strong building blocks and wall panels. Instead of using toxic plastics and chemicals, this method uses nature's own glue to create materials that are safe for people and the planet. It's like growing your house parts in a lab to make them easy to recycle later.

By the numbers
9%
EU GDP contribution of the construction sector
18 million
Direct jobs in the EU construction sector
15
Number of consortium partners
The business problem

What needed solving

The construction industry relies on toxic, non-recyclable materials that contribute to climate change. There is a lack of scalable, certified bio-based alternatives that are easy for professionals to implement.

The solution

What was built

Production pilot lines for bio-composites using co-extrusion and 3D printing. Concrete products include indoor/outdoor flooring, acoustic panels, and building blocks.

Audience

Who needs this

Sustainable building material manufacturersGreen architecture firmsPrefabricated housing companiesIndustrial 3D printing service providers
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Interior Design & Architecture
SME
Target: Acoustic panel manufacturer

If you are a manufacturer dealing with high carbon footprints in soundproofing — this project developed bio-composite intermediates that create non-toxic acoustic panels. This allows you to offer sustainable alternatives to traditional synthetic foams.

Green Construction
any
Target: Eco-friendly building contractor

If you are a contractor dealing with the demand for circular economy buildings — this project developed bio-based building blocks and green wall systems. These materials are designed for easy use by professionals and amateurs in renovation.

Advanced Manufacturing
mid-size
Target: 3D printing construction firm

If you are a firm dealing with a lack of sustainable filaments for large-scale printing — this project developed additive manufacturing techniques for bio-composites. This enables the production of customized, recyclable construction elements.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the estimated cost or price of these materials?

Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost-per-unit information is not provided.

Can this be produced at an industrial scale?

Yes, the project aims to develop production pilot lines using technologies like co-extrusion, foaming, and injection moulding to ensure industrial viability.

How is the IP or licensing handled for these bio-composites?

Based on available project data, the specific licensing terms are not disclosed, but the project involves 15 partners across 7 countries.

What regulations do these products meet?

The project engages key actors specifically for the design acceptance and certification of the new products to ensure they meet industry standards.

What is the timeline for market availability?

The project runs from 2024-07-01 to 2027-12-31, suggesting that pilot-tested solutions will be available toward the end of 2027.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is highly industry-oriented with a 40% industry ratio, comprising 6 industrial partners and 6 SMEs. This strong commercial presence, combined with 7 research entities across 7 countries, indicates a high probability of successful technology transfer from the lab to the factory floor.

How to reach the team

Contact FUNDACION AITIIP in Spain for technical specifications on bio-composite pilot lines.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to connect with the ATRIUM consortium for early adoption of bio-based materials.