Design Development for Prefabricated Building Components using Hemp and Lime

The intern will work with a multi-disciplinary research team from architecture, civil engineering, mechanical
engineering, biology, business development and materials research in the design development phase of a project
to create a bio-mass panel prototype from cellulose (hemp biomass). As the most abundant organic polymer on
the planet, cellulose is currently emerging as a sustainable material alternative to plastics and other non-recyclable
materials. Using sustainable feedstocks (industrial hemp and old corrugated cardboard) and water, this research
project uses a matrix of nano/micro fibrillated cellulose to create components for a prefabricated building system:
flat stock and aerogels combined as a structural insulated panel (SIP). SIPS are currently used in the construction
industry using combinations of spray foams, toxic adhesives and non-recyclable materials. Currently, the NMFC
has been used to successfully create extremely durable and resilient sheets, tubes and aerogel, so this project is
aimed at scaling up this material for use in building construction. This project will engage the intern with academic
advisors, industry and business leaders in the early stages of this interdisciplinary project focussing at providing
a healthy and sustainable alternative for the Canadian construction industry.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sheryl Boyle

Student:

Robin Papp

Partner:

Hurd Solutions Inc

Discipline:

Architecture and design

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Carleton University