Researchers from Japan and Norway have developed a new construction material made from desert sand and crushed wood, which promises to reduce environmental impact.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and the University of Tokyo have made an innovative discovery, transforming fine desert sand into a solid construction material, called Botanical Sand Concrete.

This solution addresses the paradox of the construction industry, which extracts sand from traditional sources, having a negative impact on the environment, while deserts are full of sand considered useless.

Ren Wei, a researcher at NTNU, explains that desert sand, too fine for conventional concrete, has limited its use in construction. The new method combines desert sand with wood dust, subjecting them to a thermal pressing process at temperatures of about 180 degrees, without using cement. The lignin in the wood acts as a natural adhesive, binding the sand particles. Laboratory tests have shown that the material meets Japanese industrial standards for paving and pedestrian surfaces.

The main ecological advantage is that the material can be produced locally, reducing transportation.

Researchers are also exploring the use of agricultural waste instead of wood, although further testing is needed for widespread use in cold climates.