Eco_GeoPrint

8th Joint Call: Eco_GeoPrint

The proposal aims to demonstrate a circular production route for sustainable geopolymer mortar by utilising waste from mineral wool production. Eco_GeoPrint focuses on developing one-part geopolymer mortar adapted for 3D printing, integrating carbon sequestration, and providing a market-ready sustainable construction material.
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Background

The construction industry is responsible for significant CO₂ emissions and urgently needs alternative low-carbon materials. Geopolymers are gaining traction as sustainable alternatives to Portland cement. However, conventional two-part geopolymers depend on sodium silicate solution, which limits large-scale application.

One-part geopolymers present an innovative alternative, with potential for industrial adoption. Combining industrial waste streams with natural zeolites for carbon sequestration and adapting the resulting mortar for 3D printing can enable both environmental and economic benefits, aligned with circular economy principles.

The project

Eco_GeoPrint will:

  • Utilise mineral wool production waste and kiln ashes as precursors in one-part geopolymer mortar.
  • Develop an in-house sodium silicate activator from waste materials.
  • Incorporate natural zeolites to enhance carbon sequestration in foamed geopolymer mortar.
  • Adapt the designed mortar for 3D printing of pre-cast building elements.
  • Conduct life cycle assessment (LCA) and economic analyses to evaluate environmental and economic feasibility.
  • Build a statistical model to correlate raw material characteristics with performance and carbon capture potential, addressing variability in waste streams.

The science

The project integrates materials science, civil engineering, circular economy, and digital fabrication. Core research aspects include:

  • Development of waste-based activators and sustainable mix designs.
  • Structural, durability, and carbon capture testing of geopolymer mortars.
  • Adaptation of formulations for additive manufacturing (3D printing).
  • Advanced modelling and atomistic simulations to link raw material variability to performance.
  • LCA and techno-economic assessments for industrial scalability.

The team

  • Dr. Kaan Aksoy (Coordinator), Betek Boya ve Kimya Sanayi A.S., Turkey
  • Dr. Muhammad Al Muttaqii, National Research and Innovation Agency, Indonesia
  • Prof. Ubagaram Johnson Alengaram, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia
  • Assoc. Prof. Zeynep Bundur, Özyegin University, Türkiye

 

Contact:

Dr. Kaan Aksoy                            E-Mail: Kaan.Aksoy@betek.com.tr 

Tags
CIRCULAR ECONOMY