Biobased materials are being explored as alternatives to traditional construction resources. Rijkswaterstaat, the Dutch government agency responsible for infrastructure, is conducting research at Hoeve Nieuwe Zwanenburg near Oirschot to assess the feasibility of using crops in construction.

A Hub for Innovation
Originally purchased to support the widening of the A58 motorway, Hoeve Nieuwe Zwanenburg has been repurposed as a research site for material innovation. Designers, researchers, government officials, and entrepreneurs collaborate to examine applications for raw materials derived from crops.

Crops as a Resource
Since 2024, the farm has been cultivating fibre-rich crops to evaluate their potential in construction, road-building, and hydraulic engineering. The project examines how these materials can be integrated into infrastructure projects.

Fibre-Based Road Furniture
One of the key projects at the site involves assessing the feasibility of using plant-based fibres in roadside furniture. Project leader Hans Eenhoorn states that these fibres are also being considered for use in noise barriers, asphalt reinforcement, and drainage applications.

Reducing Dependency on Foreign Suppliers
By cultivating and processing raw materials locally, the initiative aims to decrease reliance on imported construction materials. This approach could contribute to regional economic activity and reduce transport-related carbon emissions.

Local Expertise and Ecological Benefits
The project includes collaboration with local farmers and researchers. Test crops such as elephant grass (Miscanthus) are under evaluation for their potential to improve soil quality, sequester CO2, and serve as renewable resources. Additionally, experimental plantings of flax and industrial hemp are being explored for use in composite materials.

Noise Barriers from Natural Fibres
Research is being conducted into the development of noise barriers incorporating harvested plant fibres. These barriers are intended to enhance acoustic insulation while offering an alternative to conventional concrete or synthetic materials.

A Bridge Between Flax and Resin
A case study referenced in this research involves a bridge in Germany constructed using flax and resin. This example is being examined for insights into the application of plant-based composites in civil engineering and infrastructure.

Towards Lower-Impact Infrastructure
By assessing the use of locally sourced, biobased materials, Rijkswaterstaat aims to determine the potential for reducing environmental impact in construction. The initiative explores CO2 sequestration and circular material use as part of its research into sustainable infrastructure.

Source: Rijkswaterstaat
Photo: Rijkswaterstaat