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As they grow, these microbes absorb carbon dioxide and produce calcium carbonate, the same compound found in shells and boners.
By Shula Rosen
A groundbreaking innovation from researchers at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology may offer a sustainable alternative to cement—one of the world’s most polluting materials.
The new technology uses photosynthetic microorganisms to bind sand, creating a strong, carbon-absorbing material that could reshape how we build.
Developed through a collaboration between the Technion’s architecture and biotechnology faculties, the material is the centerpiece of CyanoGems, a research project combining design, engineering and environmental science.
The creation is currently featured at the prestigious Triennale Milano design exhibition in Italy, where 16 international teams are showcasing how humans might live in harmony with microbes.
The process works by using cyanobacteria—microorganisms that perform photosynthesis—to form a sticky, slimy substance called biofilm.
As they grow, these microbes absorb carbon dioxide and produce calcium carbonate, the same compound found in shells and bones.
This reaction effectively transforms loose sand into a solid form, much like cement, but with a significantly lower environmental impact.
Unlike traditional cement manufacturing, which requires burning fossil fuels to heat limestone at high temperatures—releasing large quantities of carbon dioxide—this microbial material forms and hardens at room temperature.
According to Assistant Professor Shany Barath, one ton of the microorganisms can absorb up to 1.8 tons of CO₂.
Once set, the material continues to function as a living system.
As long as it receives sunlight, moisture and carbon dioxide, the microorganisms remain active, continuing to photosynthesize. For this reason, the building components are designed to maximize exposure to air and light.
The next phase for the team is scaling up production. They aim to create full-size architectural elements such as bricks, wall panels and cladding that could be 3D-printed directly on construction sites, reducing labor and equipment costs.
Although still in development, the project has already drawn international attention. It received the Climate Solutions Breakthrough Research Prize in 2024 from the Jewish National Fund of Canada and KKL-JNF.
Researchers including Prof. Yechezkel Kashi, PhD student Perla Armaly, master’s student Yuval Berger, and Dr. Lubov Illiasafov are continuing to refine the technology, which they believe could lead to a greener future in construction. Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too! Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion. Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!
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