Bioinspired building material reduces emissions by over 720 lbs

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) have developed a novel carbon-negative building material called enzymatic structural material (ESM) that captures CO2 instead of emitting it, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete. Unlike conventional concrete, which emits approximately 330 kilograms of CO2 per cubic meter, ESM sequesters over 6 kilograms of CO2 per cubic meter. This material is produced through a low-energy, bioinspired enzymatic process that transforms carbon dioxide into solid mineral particles, which are then bound and cured under mild conditions within hours—significantly faster than the weeks required for concrete curing. ESM’s advantages extend beyond its carbon-negative footprint; it features tunable strength, recyclability, and rapid curing, making it suitable for various construction applications such as wall panels, roof decks, and modular building components. Its repairability also promises to reduce long-term maintenance costs and construction waste. The material’s lightweight, fast-forming, and low-energy characteristics make it particularly valuable