AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Centre in Spain, has announced BUILD-LIMONENE, a groundbreaking project focused on developing sustainable construction materials. This initiative aims to utilize waste products from the Valencian Community’s citrus sector and CO2 emissions from local industries.
BUILD-LIMONENE seeks to create new, biodegradable additives and materials with a reduced carbon footprint for the construction industry. These materials target high-demand applications like sustainable polymers, coatings, and additives, offering viable alternatives to existing options.
The project promotes circular economy principles by reusing citrus peels (limonene rich) and captured CO2 to create innovative construction materials. This approach not only reduces waste but also explores CO2 as a potential building block for polycarbonates and polyurethanes.
Currently in the experimental stage, BUILD-LIMONENE optimizes the catalytic reaction between limonene oxide and CO2 to achieve polycarbonates with desired properties. Additionally, researchers are identifying citrus varieties with the highest limonene content.
This project aligns perfectly with the Valencian Community’s S3 Strategy for Intelligent Specialization and the CIEI Committee’s focus on circular economy. By incorporating CO2 and food waste into construction materials, BUILD-LIMONENE aims to significantly reduce the industry’s environmental impact.
