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This collection is a selection of the CNCA handbook developed by Arup which consists of guidance on both the use and purchasing of bio-based materials for structures, cladding, insulation and lining.
Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have developed an innovative method to capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and transform it into valuable carbon fibres. This process not only addresses greenhouse gas accumulation but also creates high-strength materials with broad applications.
It starts with microalgae cultivation. These algae absorb CO₂ from the air and industrial emissions, converting it into biomass rich in oils. Through a series of chemical and biotechnological processes, the algal oil is transformed into polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibres, which are then carbonised using solar energy to create carbon fibres. The entire process removes more CO₂ than it emits, making it a viable pathway for long-term carbon storage.
One of the most exciting applications of these algae-based carbon fibres is in construction. When combined with granite, they create a lightweight yet highly durable composite. Carbon fibre-reinforced granite beams match the load-bearing capacity of steel while being as light as aluminium. Reducing reliance on traditional steel and cement means fewer emissions, less material waste, and more efficient structures.
At the end of their lifecycle, these carbon fibres can be stored in empty coal seams, effectively locking away the captured CO₂ for millennia. Unlike many carbon capture methods that require continuous energy input, this process offers a built-in, permanent storage solution. Initial studies suggest that the economics of algae-derived carbon fibre production are competitive, further strengthening its potential for widespread adoption.
Expanding algae cultivation in sun-rich regions such as southern Europe and North Africa could enable large-scale CO₂ capture. Facilities covering an area similar to Algeria, for instance, could offset emissions from global air travel. As saltwater algae thrive in non-arable land, this process avoids competition with food production while making use of underutilised spaces.
As carbon fibres reshape material choices in architecture and construction, platforms like revalu can play a key role in helping professionals compare and integrate these innovations into their projects. With material intelligence becoming increasingly important, tools that simplify access to environmental product data will be vital in bringing these solutions to market.
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