Exploring the Potential of Strong Wool Base Biomaterials to Produce Regionally Sustainable Bio-Composite Materials in Aotearoa for the Built Environment

Abstract

This research investigated the potential of strong wool in a bio-composite building material for architectural use. Considering the historical significance of strong wool in New Zealand and its unique qualities, I chose to make this material a key part of the project. My goal was to contribute to the reduction of the negative impact the construction industry has on the environment. Various biomaterials were combined and tested to develop a final ‘recipe’ for a locally sourced, low-tech bio-brick.

Through experimentation and multiple iterations, I developed a biomaterial composite containing strong wool, seaweed, recycled clay and cornstarch. This was the most promising composite and the resulting bio-brick was lightweight and had notable compressive and tensile strength. A key aspect of my research was to ensure that any composite I developed could be fabricated using low-tech methods. Therefore, I underwent a trial-and-error process to create a ‘fool-proof’ recipe for the bio-brick, which does not require precise measurement and can be made on-site.