Flora Materials, an innovative biomaterials startup based in Carbondale, is pioneering sustainable construction with the development of algae-based building materials.

The company, led by founder Natalie York, has secured an additional $1.9 million in funding through the U.S. Army’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop its pioneering carbon-based floor tiles. ‘algae.

Originally awarded $250,000 in 2023 for Phase I research, the new Phase II contract focuses on increasing production to provide sustainable, American-sourced flooring solutions that are both functional and durable .

Founded in 2023, Flora Materials operates as a research arm within West 40 Studio, a design and architecture firm in Carbondale.

“We’re excited to be here in Carbondale and really make an impact,” York said. “We also hope to create more jobs in Carbondale, especially when we get to the manufacturing stage. »

She said she began researching the product in 2021.

“We started with the idea of ​​researching building materials, eliminating petroleum-based chemicals and replacing them with an organic alternative,” she said. “Our plans through our grant are to look at vinyl products, such as interior and exterior flooring and cladding. »

The company’s cutting-edge approach uses a bio-based polyurethane composite, replacing traditional petroleum-based polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials.

“The materials we use in construction must not only perform well, but also benefit our planet,” York said in a press release. “We prove that it is possible to have beautiful, sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. »

Its vision is to replace standard flooring products like luxury vinyl tile (LVT) with options that are not only more durable, but also perform better.

“We are aiming for a 90% bio-based product that will meet USDA BioPreferred certification,” York said, ensuring that the final product not only meets industry standards but also supports American manufacturing. “That’s what the military is interested in as they move forward with their climate action plan and will be moving toward bio-based in the near future.” »

By utilizing the natural carbon-capturing abilities of algae, Flora Materials floor tiles aim to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the construction sector. Current estimates suggest that traditional PVC flooring contributes to over 10 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year.

The company’s algae-based alternative not only reduces emissions but also improves recyclability, making it a promising solution for greener construction.

Although the current focus is on flooring, the company plans to explore other applications for its algae-based biomaterials in construction.

“We will develop the manufacturing stage at the same time as product development,” York said. “This will help us reduce costs and focus on developing a set of different product options.”

She said West 40 Studio is designing a net-zero residential project in Pitkin County, in which Flora Materials products will be installed.

“We will be installing the product as part of a project in Pitkin County, which will help us navigate and understand how the product should be installed,” she said. “We will work with local contractors in the valley to work on this carbon neutral project. This will really tie everything together.

The ultimate goal of the Phase II project is to produce enough seaweed-based tiles to cover an 800 square foot project, proving its scalability and market readiness. With a focus on organic content, sustainability and ease of installation, Flora Materials is leading the way for sustainable transformation in the construction industry.

For more information about the company and its products, visit floramaterials.com.