Multifunctional characterization of cement- Sargassum composites for application as bioconstruction materials.

This article focuses on the development and evaluation of sustainable construction materials incorporating pelagic brown algae of the genus Sargassum, which has caused significant environmental and economic challenges due to massive influxes on Caribbean beaches since 2011. By partially substituting sand with 5 wt.% and 7.5 wt.% ground and washed Sargassum in Portland cement mortars, the study demonstrates that the resulting composites exhibit acceptable mechanical strength for coating applications, improved thermal insulation properties, and enhanced solar absorptance. A prospective analysis for housing in Quintana Roo, Mexico, estimates that using these materials in 5% of households could reduce annual air conditioning energy consumption by approximately 67 GWh, yielding economic savings and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The research highlights the potential of valorizing Sargassum biomass within a circular economy framework, while noting challenges such as durability, pollutant absorption by the algae, and the need for regulatory frameworks to support industrial use.