A new, construction system designed by Colorado researchers creates high strength, easy-to-assemble building materials out of 100 percent recycled material - including hemp.
The eco-friendly system is known as BioSIPS (Bio-Structural Insulated Panels) and was developed by a University of Colorado Denver professor and former graduate student.
BioSIPS turns waste materials like paper, noxious weeds, industrial hemp and discarded forest products into strong, lightweight boards that are easy to assemble.
The newly invented sustainable material could help replace petroleum-based building products known to harm humans and the environment.
"The BioSIPs invention actually consumes society’s waste and diverts tons of trash into valuable products for safe, strong, and energy efficient buildings," Professor of Architecture Julee Herdt said.
Herdt and former CU Denver graduate student Kellen Schauermann founded BioSIPs, Inc. as a CU spin-off company in 2008, according to the university. They brought in other CU Denver architecture students for construction of a BioSIPs building made entirely from the SIP panels that showcase a range of bio-based furniture, sliding wall and ceiling panels and signage.
It is the first patent for CU Denver’s College of Architecture and Planning.
