DeakinBio Tiles
Decorative tiles made from captured carbon and plant-derived biopolymers.
Deakinbio tiles are made from captured carbon in the form of carbonate minerals along with plant-derived biopolymer binders. The bio-inspired circular material has a structure analogous to natural seashells, which are also comprised of carbonate minerals infused with natural biopolymers.
Unlike ordinary ceramic tiles, which require high-temperature firing and glazing steps, @Deakinbio tiles are processed under relatively low-energy conditions making them significantly greener alternatives.
The materials, which are still undergoing process optimisation, have compressive strengths as high a 6 MPa (Megapascals) which is similar to ordinary brick mortar. The bending strengths are as high as 5 MPa.
The materials have a natural matte finish but can also be “glazed” with a biopolymer varnish to give a smooth, polished finish. The materials can also be coloured with a range of natural pigments.
DeakinBio tiles will continue to absorb some CO2 from the atmosphere over their lifetime.
Raw materials
DeakinBio tiles are made from captured CO2 in the form of carbonate minerals combined with plant-derived biopolymer binders.
Afterlife plan
At the end of life, the materials can be recycled to make more tiles – or combined with compost to biodegrade and act as an acidity-neutralising calcium-based fertiliser akin to limestone.