Cyalith

Deakin Bio has developed a technology to produce bio-based materials that are functionally equivalent to decorative ceramic tiles but avoid the need for firing and other high-energy processes. Termed BioSintering, the technology produces bio-inspired materials with structures and compositions similar to natural materials, such as seashells, ivory and tooth enamel, but are produced in minutes rather than grown over many days/weeks. According to an independent Life Cycle Assessment, the materials have a 94% lower carbon footprint and produce 99% less particulate air pollution compared to ordinary ceramic tiles. The company exclusively uses recycled and/or naturally occurring minerals, along with plant-derived biopolymers and other natural additives in our formulations. They have a strong emphasis on sustainability and circularity.

Cyalith is made from naturally occurring calcium carbonate, obtained from either limestone or waste seashells, combined with a natural biopolymer obtained from photosynthetic algae. The materials are naturally blue, but a range of green and brown shades have also been developed. Going forward, Deakin Bio aims to source the biopolymer as a waste product from 3rd generation algal biofuels, which will further strengthen the green credentials and economic feasibility of photosynthetic algae-based biofuels.