Project description
Sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics in bio-based materials
The use of bio-based materials is on the rise in European construction, playing a crucial role in enhancing the sector's sustainability. The EU-funded INGUMA project is dedicated to advancing sustainable bio-based materials and fostering their public acceptance based on three core values: sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics. The project aims to develop a range of materials, including functionalised fibres, mycelium-based and wood fibre-based insulation, as well as bio-based adhesives for plywood, among others. Rigorous testing will be conducted to ensure the sustainability and circularity of these materials. Through co-creation labs, the project will promote collaboration among stakeholders and optimise the acceptance of these innovative materials. Additionally, the project will involve the co-design and construction of a community house prototype on the rooftop of an experimental building in Spain and in test houses in Finland.
Objective
INGUMA aims to foster the development of bio-based materials and their acceptance by the public by relying on three main values sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics - the values of the New European Bauhaus.
The value of sustainability will be tackled by developing different types of bio-based materials from raw materials derived from agriculture residues and secondary raw materials from wood processing. Various types of materials will be developed: functionalized fibers, insulation material based on mycelium, resin-free insulation material based on wood fibers, bio-based adhesive for plywood, low-formaldehyde plywood board, wooden sandwich panels, and growth media for plants. In addition, these materials will be integrated into insulation panels and vegetated roofs.
The sustainability and circularity of these materials and solutions will be ensured by applying environmental criteria and digital tools that will allow users to make decisions on the most sustainable solutions available. Additionally, the materials will be tested according to European and international standards, as a first step in the commercialization outside of Europe (Canada).
The value of inclusion will imply the design of co-creation laboratories that encourage collaboration among stakeholders, fostering transparent communication and generating innovative ideas. These labs will provide a platform for engagement and a structured process for stakeholders to contribute their insights and actively participate in the development of bio-based construction materials. This way, the acceptance of the developed materials, products and solutions by end-users and consumers will be maximized.
The value of aesthetics will be accomplished by co- designing and constructing a community house prototype in the rooftop of an experimental building (Derio, Spain) and as part of test houses (Savonlinna, Finland) that will use extensively the materials and products developed.
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Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-IA - HORIZON Innovation ActionsCoordinator
20009 DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIAN (GIPUZKOA)
Spain