Newly invented biobased materials from low-carbon, diverted waste fibers: Research methods, testing, and full-scale application in a case study structure

Abstract

This project demonstrates newly invented, biobased construction materials developed by applying lowcarbon, biomass waste sources through the Authors' engineered fiber processes and technology. If manufactured and applied large-scale the project inventions can divert large volumes of cellulose waste into high-performance, low embodied energy, environmental construction alternatives that lessen society's dependence on greenhouse gas emitting products associated with global warming. Biobased materials produced in this work include: 1. High strength-to-weight-ratio "bioboards" as a dense, thin, multipurpose construction hardboard from 100% waste sources and without resins, binders, or adhesives. Bioboards are used in flat and multidimensional form to create the project inventions. 2. Modular, threedimensional- core, structural insulated wall, floor, and roof "BioSIPs" panels developed using bioboards as main structural components. BioSIPs received patenting during the project. This publication describes research and computational methodologies, testing of project materials, and their full-scale application as the exterior and interior materials and construction system for a solar-powered case-study building. The authors are currently advancing project inventions for commercialization.