HIBISCUS

High-performance circular and bio-based materials in the construction and building sector

Abstract:

The construction sector is the second largest industrial ecosystem in the EU in economic terms, generating 11.5% of the EU Gross Value Added in 2023. However, while it creates economic value, the highly polluting materials derived from petroleum also contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for up to 37% of global operational energy and process-related CO₂ emissions. This represents a serious challenge and calls for an urgent transition towards a circular economy.

Although a change is taking place in the consumption and production of materials, the sector faces limits in terms of price, material efficiency, and social acceptability.

The HIBISCUS project aims to revolutionize the building envelope sector by replacing fossil-based materials with innovative bio-based alternatives to improve sustainability, economic viability, and regulatory compliance, while reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.

Coordinated by SOPREMA and 11 partners across Europe, the project applies a thorough methodology to provide new bio-based materials for the building envelope through the conversion of various feedstock sources. The partners will demonstrate at pilot scale the feasibility of scaling up bio-based materials while meeting market standards and industry needs.

The project foresees the creation of five bio-based construction materials – (2) waterproofing, (2) insulation, and (1) carpentry solution – with an average of 80% bio-based components and a 25% improved environmental profile.

Within five years after the project, HIBISCUS aims to ensure that all materials comply with CE marking standards and achieve a 10% market share for bio-based materials.

Ultimately, HIBISCUS seeks to consolidate the EU’s position at the forefront of sustainable construction practices, promoting circular economy principles and supporting more resilient buildings through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

Leitat’s role in the project:

• WP2 (Leader): Supply, characterization, and transformation of waste cooking oil (WCO).

• WP3: Synthesis of bio-based polyols from vegetable oils for thermoset foams.

• WP4: Formulation of bio-based primer and top-coat paint for window and door frames.