In an innovative leap towards sustainable construction, researchers are turning to an unlikely source: Brewers’ Spent Grains (BSGs). A recent study led by Badreddine El Haddaji from the Institut de Recherche ESTP in France explores the potential of BSGs as a low-carbon aggregate in building materials, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint associated with conventional construction practices.
Brewers’ Spent Grains, the by-product of the beer brewing process, are often discarded or used for animal feed. However, with an estimated 10.02 million tons generated annually in the EU alone, the potential for valorization in construction is significant. El Haddaji emphasizes the importance of this shift, stating, “By transforming waste into building materials, we not only reduce landfill contributions but also create a more sustainable construction sector.”
The study compares BSGs to traditional aggregates like hemp shives, known for their thermal properties. Utilizing cornstarch as a biopolymer binder, the research evaluates three formulations: pure BSGs, a mix of BSGs and hemp shives, and pure hemp shives. The results are promising. While the thermal conductivity of BSGs is higher than that of hemp shives, the moisture absorption properties of BSGs enhance their utility in energy-efficient building applications.
El Haddaji notes, “The findings reveal that BSGs can significantly contribute to thermal regulation in buildings, which is crucial for energy efficiency.” This is particularly relevant as the construction industry faces increasing pressure to adopt greener practices. The ability to incorporate waste materials into building components not only aligns with sustainability goals but also presents a commercial opportunity for construction firms looking to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
The study’s findings highlight the mechanical properties of the formulations, indicating that while pure hemp shives offer the highest compressive strength, the environmental benefits of using BSGs, such as waste reduction and improved thermal properties, could outweigh these limitations. “Sustainability and performance must go hand in hand,” El Haddaji asserts, suggesting that future research will focus on optimizing these blends to enhance mechanical properties while maintaining their eco-friendly advantages.
This research, published in the journal ‘Biomimetics’, paves the way for a circular economy within the construction industry. By leveraging abundant by-products like BSGs, the sector can not only address its carbon emissions but also promote resource efficiency. As the construction industry increasingly embraces sustainable materials, the potential for BSGs to reshape building practices is becoming clearer, promising a future where waste is transformed into valuable resources.
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the [Institut de Recherche ESTP](http://www.estp.fr) website.
