Revolutionary Sargassum Construction Panels by UNAM Combat Beach Issues

The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) has developed an innovative solution to address the issues caused by sargassum on the Caribbean beaches. These issues include unpleasant odor, fungus proliferation, and limited flexibility. The solution, known as the sargapanel, is a construction panel similar to drywall that incorporates sargassum in its core and covering.

Sargassum, a type of macro-algae, often washes up on the Caribbean coasts, disrupting the pristine white sand beaches. Over the past decade, various institutions have proposed different methods to process sargassum, such as turning it into footwear or construction blocks. However, these methods haven't been widely adopted.

The sargapanel, developed by a team led by Miriam Rocío Estévez González, a researcher at UNAM's Center for Applied Physics and Advanced Technology, solves the problems posed by previous sargassum products. "We are talking about a standard panel used in construction, which involves the use of 5 kilograms of dry sargassum and between 50 and 60 kilograms of wet sargassum," explains Estévez González.

Benefits of Sargapanel in Construction

UNAM's sargapanel is not only a solution to the sargassum problem, but it's also recyclable. Unlike regular panels that contain fiberglass, the sargapanel is made from macroalgae and plaster, which allows it to be recycled after use. It also offers superior thermal insulation and acoustic properties compared to traditional drywall, making it ideal for constructing facilities like hotels. Additionally, the sargapanel doesn't catch fire as quickly as drywall, taking up to 10 minutes to burn compared to a few seconds for traditional materials.

A previous attempt to create a sargassum-based panel failed due to mold growth. However, the UNAM team found that collecting sargassum from the sea rather than the beach prevents this issue, while also preventing coastal erosion and contamination caused by the macroalgae. "With this treatment from the collection, we can store the sargassum for making the sargapanel," says Eduardo Urzúa Fernández, director of university entrepreneurship at UNAM's Technological Linkage and Transfer Department.

Investment Needed for Sargapanel Production

With the technology and product now developed, investment is needed to begin industrial production of the sargapanel. Panelrey, a company interested in licensing the technology and paying royalties to UNAM, is currently testing the developed technology.