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ConcreteCircular

Wastebased Concrete

by Novel Grey · Netherlands · CON217 · Published 18 Feb 2026
About this material

Novel Grey develops sculptural wall elements composed of 50% recycled construction waste, including crushed sand and cement stone. By locally sourcing and processing demolition rubble, half of the virgin raw materials are replaced with reclaimed aggregates. Depending on the composition, this results in CO₂ reductions of 30% to 76% compared to conventional concrete.

In addition, Novel Grey produces elements in geopolymer concrete, in which original Portland cement is fully replaced by metallurgical slag, a by-product of the metal industry. This alternative binder significantly lowers environmental impact while maintaining strength, durability, and surface quality.

All designs are classified as Fire Class A1, making them suitable for high-standard architectural applications. The weight ranges from approximately 15 to 50 kg per m², depending on thickness and configuration. The material offers light acoustic properties and is developed for interior wall applications in residential, hospitality, and commercial environments.

Installation can be carried out using cement-based adhesive or high-tack mounting adhesive, depending on the substrate and project requirements. The wastebased concrete is UV resistant and a protective nano-coating ensures water repellency.

The production process, custom moulds, and carefully engineered compositions create a natural surface appearance with subtle color marbling and occasional air inclusions. These characteristics are not flaws but material signatures that contribute to a warm, tactile aesthetic as a deliberate contrast to the conventional perception of concrete as purely structural and cold.

In addition to standard collections, Novel Grey collaborates with architects and designers on bespoke designs and applications, integrating sculptural concrete surfaces into broader spatial concepts. By combining circular material strategies with sensory refinement, Novel Grey positions concrete as both a responsible and expressive design material.

Material properties

Sensorial

Glossiness:GlossyTranslucence:0%Structure:ClosedTexture:SmoothHardness:HardTemperature:CoolAcoustics:ModerateOdour:NoneWeight:Heavy

Technical

Fire resistance:GoodUV resistance:GoodWeather resistance:GoodScratch resistance:ModerateChemical resistance:Moderate

Environmental

Renewable:No

Content composition

Recycled content:26–50%

Keywords

  • tiles
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