A team of engineers, including UCF grads Derek Staltzman and Mason Mincey, are turning plants into the next generation of tech at a Lake Nona materials lab. They’re using cellulose, a polymer found in biomass like trees and grass, to create new products.
Seaweed-Based Products
One of their products, called Seabind, is made from seaweed and can make concrete 30% stronger. It can also be used to create coatings for carbon fiber or metals, making them lighter and more eco-friendly.
The team is looking to expand their work into space, with potential applications for building structures on the moon using moon dust and nanomaterials. They’re also exploring the use of their technology in other areas, such as creating stronger and more sustainable materials for use in construction and manufacturing.
The material science industry is taking notice of Soarce’s mission to cut toxic chemicals in everyday products. The team has been recognized by Forbes and has partnered with Lake Nona’s Tavistock group.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
