A nanotech firm has developed a chemical that turns desert and ocean sand into an aggregate usable for construction in arid and coastal regions.
Known as DRT, it is the brainstorm of Bangkok-based company, Doctor T, it is being put forward as a sustainable alternative to traditional river sand – which is facing growing global shortages – and for use with recycled waste materials.
Once the sand is coated, the material is called DRT-Sand, and preliminary testing has shown it remains water-resistant even in humid conditions, with no degradation or impact on aquatic life in seawater and aquaculture ponds, and does not produce toxic smoke or spread flames, according to Doctor T.
The company said, “cement mix trials confirm excellent bonding, with no bubbles or cracks” demonstrating real-world potential and an aggregate suitable for use “in cement mixes for slabs, beams and lightweight structural elements”.
“[It also] reduces dependence on river sand or imported materials and can be developed into exportable materials from desert areas”.
Thailand primarily imports silica sand and quartz sand from Australia, Vietnam and Malaysia while Australia exports sand – silica, quartz, and natural sands, to multiple countries in Asia and Oceania, representing a multi-million dollar industry annually.
Doctor T has plans for pilot projects with DRT-Sand to begin later this year in the Middle East and Africa, focused on water management and low-carbon infrastructure, with a broader roll-out from 2026.
The company was best known for its TPoxy and synthetic wood products before turning its sights on cement mixes. It is now seeking partners and investors to support global scaling up of the new material by 2027-2028.
About the author
Desi Corbett
Desi is the Editor of Concrete in Australia, at the helm since December 2013, and our weekly news writer since 2016. Focused on concrete and construction for more than 11 years, her expertise in this field forms part of a journalism career spanning three decades. To get in touch please email desi@corbettcomms.com