In another step towards a circular economy, researchers at Flinders Chalker Lab have used inexpensive raw materials to produce lightweight but strong polymer building blocks that can be bonded together by a chemical reaction without the use of cement.
In their most recent work, they tested the durability of these materials and explored the possibilities for reinforcement in construction.
“In this study, we tested a new type of brick that can be made from used cooking oil mixed with sulfur and dicyclopentadiene (DCPD). Both sulfur and DCPD are byproducts of oil refining,” the authors write.
Bricks are joined without mortar by adding a small amount of amine catalyst. All raw materials are abundant and can be classified as industrial waste.
Source: Ferra
