Increasing concrete strength and resiliency by adding nanocellulose

February 17, 2025

Concrete is one of the most common materials in our daily lives as a part of our roads, buildings, parking structures, sidewalks, etc. However, it is very harmful for the environment. Purdue researchers have solved this problem by developing a cementitious mixture from nanocellulose. This technology will be transformative for the cement industry as it renders a material that is more sustainable and eco-friendlier.

Erinn Frank

Licensing Associate

Jeffrey Youngblood, professor in Purdue University’s School of Materials Engineering, has developed patent-pending chemically modified cellulose nanocrystals and nanofibers that increase concrete’s flexural strength 30%. (Purdue University photo/Will Cabral)

summary

here is a widespread effort to use construction materials with a minimal carbon footprint. A Purdue University researcher has developed patent-pending materials to make cement more eco-friendly and reduce the volume and demand of raw materials. Applications for the innovation include road, bridge and building construction.

PROBLEM

Efforts are being made to divert away from unsustainable engineering practices and instead use materials with a minimal carbon footprint. This includes applications like road, bridge and building construction.

SOLUTION

A Purdue University researcher has developed patent-pending chemically modified cellulose nanocrystals and nanofibers that can be integrated into traditional concrete.

Mechanical tests show a 30% increase in concrete’s flexural strength, or the ability to resist bending, when the nanocellulose is integrated. Additional research will be conducted into the best surface treatments, ratios, types of cement, supplementary cementitious materials and additives.