GoKawiilHebrew University team develops BioPykrete, an ice composite 10x stronger than frozen water
Researchers led by Professor Ido Braslavsky at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem created BioPykrete, a composite of ice, cellulose nanocrystals and an engineered protein called CBM3a-AFPIII. The material is about ten times stronger under compression than ordinary ice, absorbs roughly 70 times more energy before failing, and deforms gradually rather than cracking suddenly.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The researchers suggest the molecular-level bonding between protein, cellulose and ice prevents cracks from spreading freely, which could make the material viable for construction where concrete or steel are scarce, particularly in cold regions. The work echoes Britain's wartime Pykrete concept, indicating renewed interest in reinforced-ice materials for practical building applications, though real-world construction use remains unproven.
- BioPykrete is 10x stronger under compression than regular ice and nearly concrete-like in strength.
- It combines ice, cellulose nanocrystals, and a specially engineered protein that bonds the materials together.
- Researchers see potential use for Arctic and polar construction, building on the WWII-era Pykrete concept.
Source: techspot.com — Rob Thubron, 2026-10-14
Published there as: “Scientists create super ice that's 10 times stronger than regular ice and almost as tough as concrete”
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