Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) announced the development of a new building material, enzymatic structural material (ESM), that removes more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it produces. The material, described in a recent issue of the journal Matter, utilizes an enzyme to convert carbon dioxide into solid minerals, offering a potentially cleaner and faster alternative to traditional concrete.

The ESM cures in a matter of hours and permanently sequesters carbon, unlike concrete production, which is a significant source of global carbon emissions. According to WPI researchers, the ESM is designed to be strong, durable, repairable, and recyclable, presenting a significant advancement in sustainable construction practices. "This new material could change how the world builds," said a WPI spokesperson. "If adopted widely, it could slash emissions across the construction industry."

Concrete production is responsible for an estimated 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, making it a major contributor to climate change. The traditional process involves heating limestone to high temperatures, releasing large amounts of CO2. ESM offers a fundamentally different approach by actively capturing and utilizing CO2, effectively turning a greenhouse gas into a building block. The enzyme used in ESM acts as a catalyst, accelerating the mineralization process where CO2 reacts with other materials to form a solid, stable structure. This mimics natural processes like the formation of limestone, but at a significantly accelerated rate.

The development of ESM highlights the growing role of biotechnology in addressing climate change. By harnessing the power of enzymes, scientists are creating innovative solutions for carbon capture and utilization. This approach aligns with broader efforts to develop carbon-negative technologies, which aim to remove more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than they release.

While ESM shows considerable promise, further research is needed to optimize its production and assess its long-term performance in various environmental conditions. Researchers are currently working on scaling up the production process and exploring different formulations to enhance the material's properties. The team is also investigating the potential for using waste materials as feedstock for the ESM, further reducing its environmental footprint. The next steps involve pilot projects to test the material in real-world construction applications, paving the way for wider adoption and commercialization.