Sustainable building materials startup bioMASON is getting more recognition for its technology – and more cash to fuel the company’s development.
The Research Triangle Park company was the winner of the first Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Challenge. The contest challenged sustainable product manufacturers to redesign building materials in a way is sustainable and affordable in design, manufacturing and use.
BioMASON received $125,000 for winning the Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Challenge.
“BioMASON is going to be a highly disruptive technology for the built environment, with a lot of potential for widespread adoption across the world,” president of Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute Bridgett Luther said in a statement.
BioMASON has developed a way to “grow” cement-based building materials using bacteria. Making clay and concrete requires high heat. But bioMASON’s process works in ambient temperatures, saving energy. In comparison to traditional masonry product, bioMASON bricks are just as strong. The company hopes that introduction of its technology into construction material product lines will reduce global carbon emissions.
The company’s investors include Acorn Investments, which is based in Durham.
BioMASON recently won a $670,000 prize for taking top prize in the Postcode Lottery Green Challenge backed by Richard Branson.
