Biomimetic approach to develop a novel environmental-friendly cement inspired by mason bee nests

To decrease the CO2 imprint of the cement and concrete industry, eco-friendly materials are necessary to replace the polluting building materials. Here, we propose a study based on biomimicry to develop a novel material bioinspired by mason bees’ nests. The nests are hard as a rock, “a safe house” of the future generation of bees, and remain in place for years until it is naturally destroyed. We propose to perform a quantitative characterization of the 3D microstructure of the nests with high-resolution by near-field X-ray ptychographic tomography. This will allow us to quantify the composition of the nests based on electron density values, and to analyze the wall structures and pore network with sufficiently high resolution to resolve small pores. The results will help us to understand the impact of the nest architecture design on CO2 exchange, ventilation, and thermoregulation. Additionally, this study may contribute to saving this endangered bee species (Megachile pyrenaica).