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10 August 2026
As a result of the Academ.City “Science to Business” Open Innovation Program, scientific and laboratory work is now beginning to develop a prototype of an eco-friendly construction material (mixture) based on a binding component and hemp fiber.
The transition to laboratory research is the result of several months of joint work, starting with the formulation of a technological challenge and followed by a search for suitable scientific and technological solutions.
The partnership between science and business was initiated through the Academ.City “Science to Business” Open Innovation Program. At the beginning of the program, a list of business requests for scientific and innovative solutions was collected.
One of these requests was the need to determine the optimal composition of a mixture for producing environmentally friendly decorative and finishing construction panels. The material is expected to combine environmental sustainability, economic feasibility, and the required performance characteristics.
Ukrainian researchers specializing in materials science joined the work on this challenge and proposed a solution that fully meets the stated requirements.
The project uses the common term “binding material” in its title. However, the research focuses on developing a comprehensive binder formulation using components that can help reduce the material’s carbon footprint. The priority is therefore to move away from conventional ingredients and focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
During the laboratory research, the team will determine the optimal ratio of the binder, hemp fiber, and other components required to obtain the desired material.
The study will assess the physical, mechanical, and performance characteristics of the prototype, including strength, moisture resistance, thermal insulation properties, durability, and other parameters.
An important aspect is the compatibility of the plant-based filler with the mineral matrix, as the natural properties of hemp fiber may influence the final formulation. Laboratory experiments will make it possible to determine how the material behaves during mixing, molding, drying, and subsequent use.
Based on the results of laboratory research and testing, the partners will be able to move towards technology transfer for the production of the developed mixture.
The development addresses several important challenges simultaneously:
localization of production;
reduced dependence on imported materials;
development of a closed-loop production cycle;
use of plant-based raw materials;
creation of new employment opportunities;
reduced environmental impact of the construction sector.
Industrial hemp has significant potential for the production of construction materials due to properties such as low weight, porous structure, and thermal insulation capacity. In addition, the cultivation and processing of this crop can contribute to the development of new production chains in Ukraine.
Combining hemp fiber with mineral binders could therefore become an important element in the development of a new generation of construction panels and mixtures.
The project is coordinated on behalf of Kyiv Academic University by Olena Vasylevska, Project Manager at the Academic Startup Support Department. The Academ.City team facilitates cooperation between science and business, helps structure the tasks, organize communication, and prepare the next stages of implementation.
The research will be conducted using the relevant facilities and equipment of an educational institution in the construction sector. Therefore, in addition to addressing the technological challenge, the project also has an educational component. Young people are expected to have an opportunity to observe the research process and gain practical insight into how scientific solutions are developed and tested.
April 1, 2026 — Launch of the “Science to Business” Program
receiving the business request;
searching for a scientific solution.
July 9, 2026 — “Science to Business” Demo Day
presentation of the project;
establishment of the partnership.
August 6, 2026 — Signing of Partnership Agreements
agreements signed between Academ.City, business, and scientific partners;
launch of the laboratory research stage.
