The CSTO2NE project, funded under Horizon Europe and the UK Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council, focuses on biomimicry-driven, carbon-adsorbent eco-materials. Below is a summary of key technical and scientific progress.
Work Package 3: Upcycling and Carbon Uptake
Activities Performed:
• Waste Materials Characterization (On Track): Analyzed industrial residues (steel slags, cement dust, biomass ashes, etc.), studied hydrogen sulfide emissions, and evaluated textile fibers for CO2 capture.
• Biomimicry-Inspired Carbonation (Partially Achieved): Reviewed alkali-activated foamed materials, optimized CO2 curing on Electric Arc Furnace slag, and explored biological carbonation methods.
• Co-Utilization of Biowaste (Partially Achieved): Integrated textile fibers and biowaste into hybrid binders, developed porous structures for better carbonation, and assessed biomass applications.
Key Challenges & Next Steps:
• Address material variability with adaptable mix designs.
• Improve carbonation uniformity and long-term durability validation.
• Optimize biomimicry-based CO2 absorption for large-scale applications.
Work Package 4: Prototype Design and Properties
Activities Performed:
• Biomimicry in Prototype Design (On Track): Explored nature-inspired filtration solutions, artificial rock-like materials, and carbon-absorbing structures.
• Characterization of Industrial Prototypes (Partially Achieved): Conducted durability and thermal performance tests and assessed soil interaction and biochar integration.
• Life Cycle Assessment (Partially Achieved): Preliminary analysis shows a 30% CO2 reduction, with further data required.
Key Challenges & Next Steps:
• Scale up production for industrial applications.
• Conduct extended durability and exposure testing.
• Finalize LCA and refine economic feasibility assessments.
Work Package 5: Eco-Innovation Business Models
Activities Performed:
• Business Model Development (Partially Achieved): Conducted market studies, but industry engagement remains limited.
• Blueprint on Research Impact (Partially Achieved): Applied open innovation principles; a research paper is in preparation.
• Training on Business Models (Partially Achieved): Developed initial training and video materials, but Demoday implementation is pending.
• Demoday & Dissemination (Not Yet Achieved): Event planning is ongoing; stakeholder participation remains low.
• Handbook on Business Models (Not Yet Achieved): Conceptual work has begun, but full drafting is pending.
Overall Project Impact and Outcomes
Scientific Contributions:
• Advanced CO2 sequestration knowledge through biomimicry and industrial waste valorization.
• Developed carbon-absorbing materials with large-scale potential.
Technical Innovations:
• Demonstrated feasibility of biowaste and industrial waste as feedstock for carbon-negative products.
• Optimized carbonation techniques for sustainable construction.
Future Steps:
• Expand pilot testing for scalability.
• Strengthen industry engagement for technology transfer.
• Finalize LCA and cost assessments to support commercialization.
