Plant-based additives help turn desert sand into construction material

Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and the University of Tokyo have developed a novel construction material called botanical sand concrete, which enables the use of desert sand in concrete for the first time. Traditional concrete relies heavily on river sand and crushed rock, whose extraction causes environmental damage and resource depletion. Desert sand, although abundant, has been unsuitable for concrete due to its fine, smooth grains that prevent proper binding and result in weak structures. The research team overcame this by combining desert sand with plant-based additives and wood powder, then applying heat and pressure to create a dense, solid material without conventional cement. Laboratory tests demonstrated that this botanical sand concrete is strong enough for non-structural applications such as paving stones and walkways. However, the material is not yet ready for large-scale construction or exposure to harsh outdoor conditions, and further research is needed to evaluate its durability, especially in cold climates. The researchers emphasize the importance of using desert sand locally to minimize emissions from transportation.