nonCrete construction uses chipped biomass of alien invasive plants (AIPs) as a replacement aggregate in conventional concrete, to create a carbon negative, fire proof, fully circular building material.
The clearing of AIPs results in the restoration of natural eco-systems and the long-term security of fresh-water sources by clearing catchment areas of water-hungry AIPs.
It mitigates against large-scale disasters, such as catastrophic fires, landslides and the loss of indigenous seed banks. Moreover, it increases biodiversity and restores natural eco-systems. NonCrete aims to drive the rehabilitation of the landscape by creating demand for further AIP clearing.
Simultaneously, it demonstrates a safer, more affordable and dignified building solution that hopes to inspire future local development that is socially inclusive, eco-friendly and regenerative.
NonCrete building systems include unreinforced modular floors and a wall systems. These are carbon-negative through carbon sequestration, resource-efficient, fire-proof and fully circular. The nonCrete building systems are also cheaper than conventional alternatives and consist largely of the chipped biomass of alien invasive plants (AIPs) and hybrid cement binders.
The floor’s vaulted geometry is 30% lighter than a conventional flat slab. Being subject only to low compression stresses, low-strength concrete is used.
The AIP biomass is sourced from within a 50 km radius of the building site, minimising associated transport emissions. The building materials are produced on-site, by hand.
This low-tech solution is eco-friendly and creates local job opportunities.
NonCrete’s modular floor and wall systems have undergone rigorous testing, including full-scale loading and fire testing and are compliant to both South African and European building code requirements.
