International. Researchers from the "Materials and Mining Engineering" group of the UJA developed a new substrate that is more sustainable and economical. From clays from the ceramic industry of Bailén and waste resulting from the manufacture of beer, rich in organic matter such as sludge from the purification of its waters, bagasse or diatomaceous earths -an algae used for filtration-, they obtained a very porous material with great capacity for water absorption, which allows its use in the planting of green areas. In addition, they achieved adequate insulating properties to be placed on buildings without overloading them, being lighter than those used today.
Specifically, they can be used in the drainage layer in the structure of the green roofs where the plants are planted. These materials, which contain the mixture of clays and waste, are treated with a specific cooking system. The method requires less time and energy cost than others, since the waste itself contributes energy to the process. In addition, they make it lighter to be installed in building gardens without overloading its structure, both horizontally on the roofs, and vertically on the walls. They could also be used as filler to make concrete lighter in the construction of buildings or roads.
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