Bengaluru-based Novacret startup incubated at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is reshaping the way we think about construction materials. The company has emerged with an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cement with the use of Geopolymer technology. It is learned the new solution is to reduce carbon emissions and simultaneously also eliminate the use of water.
The approach is innovating and uses industrial byproducts like fly ash from power plants and GGBS from steel production. The startup has found a way to replace Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) entirely. The approach reuses waste materials and also ensures faster results. Traditional cement takes 28 days to achieve full strength, but the geopolymer-based material of Novacret reaches the same strength in just three days in tropical climates.
An exciting aspect of the technology is its economic advantage. The new solution is learned to benefit the construction industry by reducing costs by 15-20% and cutting CO2 emissions. Its paving blocks save 2.04 kg of CO2 emissions for every square foot produced. Projects like footpaths and bus stops in Bengaluru already showcase the potential of this technology.
What makes the development more promising is its adaptability. The blocks are customizable for various uses including solid blocks for regular construction or porous blocks that can tackle urban flooding.
The construction industry has long relied on OPC and changing these practices requires significant effort. The traditional mindset and hesitance to adopt new materials could slow down the transition.
The new technology is said to be creating better materials to make the future more sustainable. It is evident that Novacret and other such startups could lead the way in the industry.
