NET Materials®
How might materials not only be CO2-neutral but go a step further by storing CO2, making them CO2-negative?
By combining conventional Materials with Biocarbons that store CO2.
Material
carbonauten GmbH
2020
Torsten Becker, Christoph Hiemer, Denis Maier, Anestis Dietrich Becker
German Innovation Award 2020
NET Materials® stores and avoids CO2. One ton of NET Materials® binds the equivalent of up to 3.5 tons of CO2 and prevents the release of hundreds of climate-damaging gases. NET Materials® consists of biocarbon and biogenic or non-biogenic binders. It is lighter, more temperature-stable, and cheaper than plastics, as well as weather-resistant and non-combustible. Its black color eliminates the need for industrial carbon black.

After use, NET Materials® can either be recycled or re-carbonized. The global, decentralized production of biocarbon from residual wood biomass generates a continuous surplus of bioenergy and CO2 certificates.
I managed and executed this project along with numerous subsequent Proofs of Concept. From the beginning, I was deeply involved in driving the development and application of NET Materials® in various contexts. I was also responsible for the filmic and photographic documentation.
The Deutsche Bahn startup program, DB mindbox, connects startups with Deutsche Bahn and provides a unique opportunity to test and accelerate innovative solutions within DB. In the DB mindbox program GreenTech for DB, carbonauten collaborated with DB Cargo and DB Vehicle Maintenance (FZI) for a 100-day Proof of Concept (PoC). As part of the DB mindbox project, three action strands were pursued, including the use of NET Materials for suitcases, as well as armrests and seat shells from ICE trains.

I successfully pitched the project to the jury and won the selection process. Following that, I was responsible for leading the project on behalf of carbonauten.
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