CO2-capturing bricks: a solution for green construction

En Japan An innovative brick has been designed that not only surpasses concrete in strength, but also contributes to the fight against climate change by capturing carbon dioxide (CO2). These bricks have been shown to have greater traction than concrete, making them ideal for quickly constructing housing in emergency situations.

Manufacturing bricks that capture CO2

The manufacturing process of these bricks is extremely simple, making them an attractive option both ecologically and economically. The key component is sand with a high silicon content, which is placed in airtight moulds. This material is injected with CO2 using specialized pumps. Subsequently, it is added epoxy, which ensures that the bricks are well compacted and that their strength is much greater than that of conventional concrete.

These bricks are a sustainable construction solution and are designed to last around 50 years, making them a great alternative to traditional concrete. Thanks to their manufacturing process, these bricks act as CO2 sinks, meaning that as well as being durable, they help mitigate climate change.

Advantages of CO2 capturing bricks over concrete

One of the main advantages of these bricks compared to traditional concrete is that they are a 250% more resistant. This makes them a viable option for all types of buildings, from residential to commercial and industrial buildings. In addition, given their design and materials, they can be implemented in green construction projects, aligning with the principles of sustainable architecture.

CO2-capturing bricks are also much lighter than conventional concrete blocks, making them easier to transport and assemble, as well as reducing costs associated with transportation. This is a key benefit in emergency situations, as it allows homes or other structures to be built quickly with reduced environmental impact.

A material that acts as a carbon sink

One of the highlights is that by using carbon dioxide As part of the manufacturing process, these bricks help reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere. CO2, which is one of the main gases responsible for climate change, is injected directly into the bricks, trapping them in their structure throughout their life cycle. This means that even after being used, the bricks will continue to function as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Furthermore, the possibility of replacing traditional concrete with these bricks in construction would significantly reduce global CO2 emissions. It is estimated that the construction industry is responsible for approximately 8% of global emissions greenhouse gas emissions, mainly due to cement production. By investing in materials such as CO2-capturing bricks, the industry could contribute substantially to the decarbonization.

Applications and use in construction

CO2-capturing bricks can be used in all types of buildings. They offer versatility that makes them perfect for both residential construction and commercial or industrial buildings. Due to their high strength, they are especially useful in areas prone to natural disasters or emergency situations, such as earthquakes or floods, where durable and resistant materials that can be quickly assembled are needed.

In Japan, studies and tests have already been carried out to verify the durability of these bricks in long-life structures. Although their average lifespan is estimated to be 50 years, some studies have suggested that their structural strength could ensure that they remain in optimal condition for several more decades, as long as they are kept in proper conditions.

Additional innovations in building materials

The use of CO2 capturing bricks is part of a growing global movement towards green and sustainable architecture. Companies around the world are developing innovative alternatives such as concrete bricks. calcium carbonate or the blocks of biomass, which not only sequester CO2 during manufacturing, but also store it over time, a technique that has already captured the interest of major investors such as Bill Gates.

One of the highlights of such bricks is their ability to capture CO2 in large volumes. These bricks are manufactured using recycled materials and undergo CO2 injection processes, resulting in not only a more environmentally friendly brick, but also one that is more resistant than traditional concrete. In addition, these bricks not only capture CO2 during the manufacturing process, but continue to do so even after being used in construction.

For example, in Canada, bricks are being developed cementless concrete which use by-products from the metallurgical industry and CO2 to create blocks that are stronger than traditional ones. Their popularity has grown in regions where sustainability is becoming a key issue within the construction sector. These advances in mix design, coupled with accelerated cement processing techniques, are helping to accelerate the transition towards greener and more responsible construction.

Impact on the fight against climate change

As the world faces the devastating effects of climate change, it is becoming crucial to explore solutions that can reduce the carbon footprint of the most polluting industries, such as construction. CO2-capturing bricks are a clear example of how building materials can be transformed to not only reduce environmental damage, but even reverse some of the harmful effect we have caused on the planet.

The development of these bricks and other similar solutions reinforces the need to adopt global policies that promote sustainable technologies. With the support of governments and construction companies, the implementation of these materials in current and future projects could make a significant difference in reducing global CO2 emissions. We are at a key moment in which the massive adoption of this type of technology can change the course of the climate crisis.

Thus, the use of these bricks is not only an innovative solution in terms of sustainability, but could also offer enormous economic benefits by reducing dependence on expensive and limited materials such as cement.