Sargassum-Based Building Material for Affordable Housing Construction and Job Creation in Rural Communities

This Phase I research project addresses key challenges in rural housing construction by developing an innovative masonry material composed of invasive Sargassum seaweed and regionally sourced soils. Rural communities--particularly in areas such as Puerto Rico--often face high construction costs and limited access to suitable building materials. By transforming coastal biomass into a durable, low-cost construction solution, this initiative offers a dual opportunity: reducing the logistical burdens caused by Sargassum accumulation while offering a practical pathway to improve housing accessibility.Beyond developing the material itself, the project will focus on its potential to create jobs and stimulate local economies. From harvesting the Sargassum to manufacturing and building with the new material, this initiative has the power to generate meaningful employment opportunities in rural areas. The material will undergo extensive testing to ensure it meets necessary standards for strength, durability, and thermal efficiency. Additionally, prototype walls will be built, and local communities will be engaged to provide feedback, ensuring the material is aligned with their needs.This scalable Sargassum-based building material will open new markets for rural construction, offering an efficient and competitive alternative to conventional building methods. By improving the affordability and quality of housing in rural areas, the project aims to strengthen economic resilience and create long-term benefits for local communities through job creation and industry development. Ultimately, the goal is to deliver a field-tested masonry product that addresses rural housing needs through practical innovation and contributes to regional economic advancement.