Who: Mahmoud Shakouri, Ph.D and other researchers at Colorado State University

Challenge: Cement production is one of the most energy-intensive industries, contributing 7-8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional cement relies on materials like fly ash, slag, and silica fumes—byproducts of coal mining. However, as coal use declines, these materials are becoming scarce, driving the search for sustainable alternatives.=

Opportunity: Researchers are exploring the use of corn biomass waste, corn stover - the leaves, stalks and husks left after harvest -  as a sustainable supplementary material to create cement. Early studies reveal promising results: concrete blocks made with corn stover not only meet industry standards but also exhibit superior properties, such as enhanced tensile strength, durability and thermal efficiency. By reducing cracking and requiring less processing energy than traditional materials, corn stover offers a practical, low-impact alternative for cement production. This innovative approach can also significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with concrete manufacturing while creating added value for corn production, the world’s most-produced grain at over 1.09 billion metric tons annually.

Applications of this material are vast, ranging from foundation walls in framed construction to exposed interior and exterior walls, as well as freestanding landscape and retaining walls. Corn stover provides a renewable alternative to traditional cementitious materials, aligning with shifting climate change policies and paving the way for more sustainable and efficient construction practices.

Strong IP rights are the foundation that allows researchers to safeguard their investments and bring groundbreaking ideas to market. Colorado State University researchers sought patent protection for this innovation in 2023. In the case of corn-based concrete, IP supports the transformation of an agricultural byproduct into a climate-friendly solution, addressing global challenges such as carbon emissions, resource scarcity and sustainable construction. By fostering a framework where creativity and ingenuity can thrive, IP becomes an indispensable driver of progress, ensuring that sustainable solutions like this can reach their full potential.