FAQs
about our materials and impact
How is ReefCycle's biocement different from traditional cement?
Traditional cement is notoriously difficult to decarbonize due to its chemical composition and high-energy production process. ReefCycle's biocement addresses these challenges with a new chemistry inspired by nature, produced at room temperature. This innovation allows us to build with carbon rather than emitting it, offering a regenerative, eco-friendly alternative.
Why is it critical to decarbonize cement?
Cement, while only a small fraction of concrete, contributes up to 90% of its carbon emissions. Even with sustainable aggregates, traditional cement remains the major source of emissions. ReefCycle tackles this by replacing it with a carbon-storing, calcium carbonate material, transforming the core of concrete into a regenerative solution.
How does ReefCycle’s technology work?
Inspired by nature, ReefCycle's technology captures minerals and CO₂ to form biocement, mirroring how ocean organisms build coral reefs and shells. This process produces materials that are not only chemically identical to natural structures but also support ecosystem growth, restoring marine environments. Learn more about our biomimetic technology here.
photo courtesy of the Ask Nature and the Biomimicry Institute.
Why regenerate marine ecosystems?
Marine ecosystems need durable materials to form artificial reefs where organisms can settle and thrive. ReefCycle's technology creates these structures, leading to habitat creation, biodiversity enhancement, and ecosystem restoration. Additionally, it aids in climate change mitigation by creating natural carbon sinks and serving as nature's infrastructure.
How is ReefCycle poised to evolve beyond marine infrastructure?
Currently focused on marine habitats, we aim to expand into human habitats and the built environment. By testing and proving our material's resilience in the extreme ocean environment, we demonstrate its effectiveness, preparing to transition it to above-ground infrastructure, replacing traditional cement.
What is the impact of our innovation?
ReefCycle’s biocement transforms construction by increasing resource efficiency by 90% and storing nearly 50% of its weight in carbon, making it a carbon-negative alternative to traditional cement. This impact extends to frontline communities and everyday people, reducing industrial air pollution that disproportionately harms vulnerable populations while enabling climate-resilient, locally produced materials. By eliminating emissions, improving air quality, and decentralizing manufacturing, ReefCycle ensures equitable access to sustainable infrastructure. Long-term, our technology reshapes the cement industry, decarbonizing construction, reducing supply chain vulnerabilities, and positioning biocement as the gold standard for regenerative, low-carbon building materials.
Who is partnering with ReefCycle and why?
We are building partnerships with organizations in marine infrastructure, offshore energy, coastal resilience, and the built environment. Collaborating with startups, nonprofits, and government groups allows us to prototype and validate our biocement, ensuring it delivers positive impacts in marine environments and beyond. We are also partnering with designers, communities, and artists to create unique, regenerative structures that blend sustainability with creativity. By 2030, we plan to deploy our biocement in 50 major infrastructure projects across the US and internationally. Our vision includes establishing modular production centers, scaling globally, and positioning biocement as the gold standard for low-carbon, regenerative building materials.