Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have created an enzymatic structural material (ESM) that absorbs carbon dioxide as it hardens. Unlike traditional concrete, which is a major source of global emissions, this new material acts as a carbon sink, locking away approximately 6.1 kilograms of CO2 per cubic meter. This lab-scale innovation offers a significantly faster curing time than standard concrete and shows promise for use in wall panels and modular components. While scalability and cost remain hurdles, the material provides a potential path toward reducing the heavy carbon footprint of the global construction industry.
