High-performance concrete – inspiration from nature: marine habitat. ECOncrete Tech LTD companies are producing concrete inspired by nature, facilitating the growth and restoration of local marine species. At the same time, they are also reinforcing the concrete structure with marine habitat.

More than 50% of the world's population is concentrated along the coast. Accelerated coastal development is likely to cause severe stress to the natural ecosystem. Combined with increasing sea level rise and increased extreme weather events, these areas will be overrun with development, redevelopment and intensive maintenance.

Innovation details

ECOncrete offers innovative, robust and environmentally sensitive concrete solutions designed to promote the development of rich and diverse marine life as an integral part of urban and coastal marine infrastructure. These are the so-called sea walls. This technology is based on three fundamental elements: concrete reinforcement assemblies, complex surface textures and scientifically designed designs that work synergistically to reduce the ecological footprint of concrete infrastructure while increasing its strength and durability. 

Inspired by marine habitats and organisms, ECOncrete learns and mimics the shapes, textures and chemical properties of beach rock formations, rocky reefs, tide pools, mangrove roots and other marine habitats. ECOncrete supports natural processes such as calcification and growth of oysters, corals, tube worms, etc. This mimicry helps concrete structures become stronger, have a longer lifespan and better cope with extreme weather events and rising seas. The growth of these organisms also acts as an active carbon sink, offsetting some of the large carbon footprints associated with traditional concrete.

 As it scales up over time, restoring native habitats and reducing mitigation requirements for infrastructure projects, ECOncrete technologies are cost-competitive with traditional large-scale projects. 

The story of bionics

Oysters are essential to coastal ecosystems. Oysters cling to each other, forming structures like stalagmites growing from the ocean floor. Over time, this structure of oysters forms extensive reefs that resemble underwater cities. They provide habitat for many aquatic species, filter water and improve its quality, and cushion waves caused by storms and shipping, protecting shorelines from erosion.

Advantages: Increased biodiversity, carbon sequestration

Applications: Marine infrastructure

UN Sustainable Development Goals discussed: Industrial Innovation and Infrastructure; Sustainable Cities and Communities; Responsible Production and Consumption; Life Below Water; Life on Land

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Summarized by AskNature.org