Rethinking PCCs:
A Sustainable Approach
Deposited limestone is one of nature’s most effective carbon sinks, durably locking away vast amounts of CO2 over geological timescales. Accordingly, the traditional methods of extracting and processing this essential mineral come with significant environmental costs.
That’s why at Minus Materials, we’re pioneering a new approach to high-quality limestone production – one that harnesses the power of biology to create a more sustainable alternative.
Harnessing the Power of Nature
At the heart of our process is a remarkable group of microalgae called coccolithophores. These prolific calcifiers naturally precipitate calcium carbonate as part of their life cycle, forming intricate mineral structures known as coccoliths.
By cultivating coccolithophores and using environmental triggers to promote hyper-calcification, we’re able to produce a form of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) that is not only more sustainable but also possesses unique properties that set it apart from conventional PCC.
The Advantages of bioPCC
Unlike traditional PCC, which is produced through energy-intensive chemical processes, our product is created using a biological approach that captures CO2 in the process. This results in a material with a significantly lower carbon footprint, helping to preserve limestone reserves and reduce the environmental impact of industries that rely on PCC.
But the benefits of bioPCC go beyond just sustainability. Our unique production method also yields a mineral with a distinctive nano-structured morphology, unlocking a range of performance advantages:
- High bioavailability for nutrient supplements and animal feed
- Improved texture and oil absorption for personal care products
- Enhanced opacity, improved strength and bonding for paper and board products
- Improved mechanical and thermal properties for composites, adhesives, and sealants
- Greater opacity, hiding power, and durability for paints and coatings
- As a supplementary cementitious material, BioPCC improves the performance while lowering the embodied carbon of concrete mixtures.
Harnessing the
Power of Biology
By harnessing the power of biology, Minus Materials is redefining the way we think about PCC and its applications. Our bioPCC represents a significant step forward in creating a more sustainable, high-performance alternative to traditional PCC.