UWE Bristol scientists are currently working on smart bricks that are said to be capable of harnessing electricity from the sun, recycling wastewater, sensing the environment and monitoring ambient air.

The bricks adopt algae and microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that clean water, produce energy by breaking down organic waste, and give rise to detergents, phosphates and fertilizers. MFCs act on their surroundings and can also contribute to improving air quality.

Fused with programmable components, these electricity-generating and water-recycling bricks can help create “bioreactor” walls that the developers see as valuable in treating household waste, places requiring a big amount of electricity, and other large-scale applications.

The innovation is a clear sign that efficient and environment-friendly brick technology is taking off well. Other researchers and makers of smart bricks also see the trend significant. In Europe, for example, there are already startups that have upcycled waste into bricks that are energy-efficient or “green” yet attractive. Manufacturers jumping into the trend can expect good sales for the “green” building market will keep growing to $364 million by 2022.

 

http://www.globalsources.com/gsol/I/Bricks/a/9000000140357.htm