Developing biocomposite materials as low-carbon alternatives to ceramic tiles

The aim of this project will be to further develop and refine a sintering process (BioSintering®) for the fabrication of low-carbon alternatives to ceramic tiles. The project will improve the physical properties of the tiles so that they meet performance requirements as outlined by ASTM standards.

This process is able to produce a ceramic-like tile comprising  captured CO2 and a protein-based binder obtained from chickpeas. The process can be integrated with existing ceramic tile production, minimising the need for overhauling factories or investing in new production equipment. If successful, this project could have a significant positive effect on the ceramic tiles sector by offering a low-carbon non-fired alternative to conventional ceramic tiles. It may also have a significant social and economic effect on the UK, as >90% of ceramic tiles in the UK are imported from the EU, China and Malaysia – meaning the technology could re-shore production and provide local, green jobs.

Alessia Andrews

University of Manchester