FID Case Study: Carbon Cell
Carbon Cell work in the development of sustainable alternatives to traditional polymer-based foams used in construction. Their high-performance foam is fully compostable and locks in carbon for centuries.
During the trial, Carbon Cell focussed on optimising their technology through characterisation and testing, refining their business model, and expanding their business network.
Results
During the five-month programme, Carbon Cell achieved numerous impressive results that will contribute to a greener built environment in east London. These included:
4
Total number of new employment opportunities created
4
Total number of individuals trained in Green Skills
£20,000
Total investment raised
Testbed Activity
Carbon Cell’s trial aimed to gather data and verify assumptions about a wide range of aspects of their product. They tested the material properties like strength and durability of their alternative composite board and the usability of their insulating foam board in fabrication environments. Carbon Cell also used the trial to engage with key stakeholders, verifying user assumptions; and finally, they tested how easily their foam naturally decomposes.
Learning and Challenges
The programme led to significant discoveries around the composition of their products, allowing for refinement. For example, Carbon Cell were able to draw conclusions on the most effective type of biochar to be used for strength.
The testbed also helped Carbon Cell understand further Research & Development needs and pathways, with the trial presenting the opportunity for further functional requirements.
Carbon Cell gathered significant evidence to confirm the strength and thermal resistance of their products, highlighted opportunities for end-of-life refinement, and developed detailed understandings about user needs.
Outputs
Environment
Carbon Cell diverted 3.92kg of waste from landfill and sequestered the 1.5kg of CO2 throughout the challenge. Carbon Cell trained four individuals in Green Skills.
Business
Carbon Cell increased their audience size by 86%, and built and important partnership with a key desirable stakeholder. They moved from Technology Readiness Level 3 to 4.
Local Area
Carbon Cell worked with Build East Skills Centre, a construction training provider in Stratford. This collaboration supported their agenda training local residents. As part of this engagement, Carbon Cell led workshops and engagement with construction apprentices and tutors, and created four employment opportunities.
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