Wednesday 23 / July / 2025
Muscat: A student team from Sultan Qaboos University has developed an eco-friendly brick named Envibrick. Made entirely from local natural materials, this innovation is a promising and sustainable alternative to traditional bricks. It contributes effectively to reducing carbon emissions in the construction sector, aligning with Oman's unique environmental requirements and marking a pioneering step toward a future of sustainable building.
Envibrick possesses exceptional properties that make it ideal for Oman's hot and humid climate. It is lightweight, salt-resistant, and offers very high thermal insulation, which significantly reduces energy consumption in buildings and creates a more comfortable indoor environment.
The brick also has an insect-repellent property, adding a health and environmental dimension to buildings. Furthermore, its low production cost makes it an excellent economic choice compared to imported alternatives.
Halima Khamis Al Fajrani, CEO of Envibrick, explained that the team underwent a meticulous research and development journey. This began with extensive product testing in university labs using specialized equipment, with comprehensive documentation of the results through videos and photos.
She noted that the main challenge was the brick's weight. The team adjusted the component ratios, replacing heavy materials with lighter ones without compromising quality. Some of the alternatives even demonstrated higher-than-expected performance.
Al Fajrani confirmed that work is ongoing to finalize the product's composition in preparation for obtaining a patent. She added that the company plans to use 3D printing technology in the next phase, after the final mixture is approved, to produce precise models that meet the latest needs of modern construction.
The Envibrick project has achieved notable accomplishments, including winning the Best Marketing and Promotional Idea award at the Sultan Qaboos University Scientific Festival. The company was also ranked among the top three student industrial companies, reflecting the promising potential of this innovation.
The Envibrick team aims to expand into the Gulf market, leveraging the growing interest in sustainable building materials in the region. This step is fully aligned with the priorities of Oman Vision 2040 in the areas of sustainability and innovation, thereby reinforcing Oman's position as a regional center for environmental innovation.
