Pitch
Future NanoCoatings is a spin-off project from the University of Porto that aims to R&D nanomaterials-based coatings in partnership with industry. The goal is to develop non-toxic and sustainable solutions for the coating of natural construction materials such as wood, cork, stone, etc. These NanoCoatings give them hydrophobic properties, flame retardant, UV protection, among others, prolonging the life of the materials.
The current strategic market option for Future NanoCoatings is to focus on cork based materials. Although this option was majority based on an economical study, the current environmental concern about climate change was also into consideration. Cork is made from the bark of oak trees, i.e. they are not cut down, and harvested cork trees absorb about 4 times more carbon dioxide than non harvested trees. One ton of cork is able to sequester 2 tons of carbon dioxide.
