Known for its impressive beaches around the world, Mexico’s Caribbean coast is being inundated by sargassum seaweed throughout much of the year and researchers at Instituto Tecnológico de Chetumal are trying to find ways to utilize this unwanted resource that finds itself in abundance.
Researchers have developed an innovative scientific proposal to use the seaweed in the manufacture of eco-friendly building materials that can improve the thermal and structural properties of buildings.
Dr. Julio César Cruz Argüello, a professor and researcher at the institution, announced that after months of scientific analysis and laboratory testing, they have identified new applications for the sargassum as a component in construction materials that promise to function as thermal insulation, which have the potential to reduce interior temperatures by up to seven degrees Celsius.
One of the greatest challenges faced by the research team is the presence of heavy metals and salts accumulated in the material from its time in the ocean, but through a specialized chemical process, they managed to successfully clean and treat the materials for suitable integration into cement mixtures and other construction compounds. Incorporating processed sargassum into these mixtures can reduce the amount of concrete needed for wall and ceiling finishes by up to 30 percent.
The material’s insulating properties help to reflect heat, which is ideal for warm climate zones like southern Quintana Roo. By creating cooler spaces, this subsequently drives down demand for continuous use of fans and air conditioning systems, which further improves environmental performance.
The technical information for manufacturing these materials is complete and the project is moving into the first phase of community implementation. Consultation and facilitation will take place in the community of Xcalak, where people will have access to the materials for their own use and home improvements.
