Bioconcrete, mycelium, and recycled ceramics: everything about the materials of the future

Civil construction is undergoing an important transformation driven by the need to reduce projects and enhance the efficiency of buildings. Whereas before the sector was marked by reliance on traditional materials and unsustainable processes, today a new scenario emerges where biotechnology, innovation, and circularity shape more conscious pathways for the future. Within this context, solutions such as bioconcrete, mycelium brick, and recycled ceramics begin to gain prominence, offering alternatives that can unite performance, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. More than trends, these materials represent a mindset shift: they are no longer viewed as experimental and are now integrated into technical and creative discussions in contemporary architecture. Upon exploring them further, it becomes evident that they have the potential to transform construction processes, extend the useful life of buildings, and drastically reduce waste. Next, you will learn about the functioning and possibilities of each of these materials that are already emerging as protagonists of the construction of the future.

Bioconcrete: durability reinforced by biotechnology

The bioconcrete stands out for introducing self-repairing capability into one of the most widely used raw materials in the world. Specific bacteria are embedded in its composition and remain dormant until water penetrates cracks in the concrete. When this occurs, these microorganisms are activated and begin to produce limestone, naturally filling the cracks and preventing them from evolving into more serious structural damages. This characteristic significantly reduces maintenance needs, prolongs the useful life of constructions, and decreases material waste. In infrastructure projects, such as tunnels and bridges — where wear is constant — bioconcrete offers additional safety and lower costs over the years. Although the initial cost is still higher than that of conventional concrete, the savings generated by reduced repairs and replacements have driven research and applications in long-term projects.

Mycelium brick: a lightweight, organic, and biodegradable material

Produced from the structure of fungi, mycelium brick is one of the most promising materials when it comes to reduced environmental impact. It is cultivated in molds filled with organic waste, such as sawdust or plant fibers, which serve as food for the mycelium. As it grows, the fungus intertwines and solidifies the material, creating lightweight, durable, and entirely biodegradable blocks — a significant advantage compared to traditional bricks that require energy-intensive burning processes. In addition to sustainability, mycelium exhibits outstanding thermal and acoustic properties , allowing it to be used as insulation, in lightweight structural panels, and in temporary installations. Architects and designers have explored its natural aesthetics, textures, and versatility in experimental projects. Although it is not yet recommended for conventional large-scale constructions, it points toward a future where cultivated materials can replace high environmental impact alternatives.

Recycled ceramics: aesthetics and circularity

The recycled ceramics emerge as a direct response to the need to reduce industrial waste. The process involves repurposing waste generated in traditional manufacturing — broken fragments, mass scraps, ceramic powder — to produce new pieces with the same strength as the originals. This technique reduces waste volume, minimizes the extraction of raw materials, and makes the production cycle more circular and efficient. From an aesthetic standpoint, repurposing waste creates unique textures, colors, and patterns that highlight irregularity and give identity to the pieces. This uniqueness has attracted architects and designers seeking authentic and contemporary materials for coverings and decorative objects. By combining sustainability and an expressive appearance, recycled ceramics establish themselves as a viable and attractive alternative for both industries and artisanal productions.

What does the future of construction hold?

Despite the potential, these materials still face challenges related to cost, production scale, and the lack of specific regulations to ensure large-scale adoption. Many technologies remain confined to laboratories and experimental projects, but the pressure for more sustainable practices is accelerating their evolution. With research advancing and the demand for low-impact materials growing, the expectation is that these solutions will become more accessible and widely adopted. As the construction sector incorporates principles of circularity, energy efficiency, and responsible resource use, materials like bioconcrete, mycelium, and recycled ceramics are likely to play a central role. They enable new design approaches, reduce environmental impact, and reflect an important shift in how we think about buildings. The future of architecture is built with responsibility, technology, and creativity — and these materials show how this path can be more sustainable and innovative. CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.