Holland Composites BV, based in Lelystad, the Netherlands, is advancing the use of its Duplicor bio-based and fire-resistant composite materials across a range of construction projects worldwide. One of the latest implementations involves the creation of biocomposite floor elements for Dura Vermeer’s innovative housing concept, Aer, in Hengelo. This concept aims to provide fast, affordable, and environmentally responsible housing solutions.
The Aer project, currently underway, features two mock-up homes being constructed on the site of a former fishing net factory near the Apeldoorn train station in the Netherlands. These homes are expected to become future housing options and are designed to be highly sustainable. The entire construction process occurs in a factory setting, utilizing a wood frame structure. The shell of each home can be installed in 3-5 days, with the entire home, including floors, kitchens, plumbing, and technical installations, being completed in just two weeks. The building materials used in Aer contribute to an impressive MPG score (an environmental building performance metric) of less than 0.36, with material-related CO₂ emissions below 110 CO₂ equivalents per square meter. Over 79% of Aer’s material volume is bio-based.
Holland Composites’ Duplicor prepreg laminates, which are designed to replace traditional synthetic composites, are playing a critical role in this and other sustainable construction efforts. The company continues to encourage its customers to transition away from synthetic, and often toxic, composite options in favor of its environmentally conscious materials. Duplicor laminates are now being used in a variety of applications, from lightweight façades and fire-safe roof structures to interiors and offshore solutions.
One example of Holland Composites’ growing global footprint is the partnership with Surfland Composites Pvt. Ltd. in Bengaluru, India. In August, Surfland received a 40-inch cooling container fully loaded with thousands of meters of Duplicor prepreg rolls. This delivery marks an important step in the company’s strategy to onboard more customers to eco-friendly materials.
The first Aer homes are expected to enter the market in 2025. Initially, these homes will be offered for social housing, low-to-medium rental housing, and social sale. Plans are already in place to scale up the concept to include various types of owner-occupied homes in the future.
With these developments, Holland Composites and its partners are driving a future where composites made from recycled and environmentally conscious materials become the standard.
By Grace Nehls