Environmentally conscious manufacturing firm dl bio composites has launched its first low-carbon product – a portable building made from a natural bio-composite of hemp, cork or balsa wood and a vegetable-based resin.
Called the deepee, it is the brainchild of Jeremy Charlesworth, technical director at Frome-based dl bio composite, part of his Dobulous Lifestyles group.
He worked closely with the National Composite Centre on the Bristol & Bath Science Park to develop the highly versatile plant-based bio-composite building material.
Because the deepee is segmented it can be constructed to any size and shape making it a highly flexible way to meet a need for temporary space as a home or office.
Segments are lightweight – making them easy to transport and erect by hand. When not in use they fit together and can be stored flat. With a life-expectancy of approximately 25 years, structures are durable and can be used time and again as a valuable and cost-effective space.
Jeremy said: “The deepee is the culmination of many years’ work exploring the strength and integrity of ever-increasing sustainable bio-composite materials.
“I have a background in bodywork for large catamarans and racing yachts and I was sure I could replicate the beauty and strength of these in a construction material that harnesses the power of non-fossil fuel based materials. The result is the deepee, which I am very proud of.”
The deepee can be built with multiple doors, windows, bullet and blast proof walls and even connecting walkways to create entire communities. Doors have been built with disabled access in mind and other creature comforts are available such as a wood burner, spiral water-catchers, solar panels and electric cabling.
The deepee is available being offered for holiday homes, temporary office space or as private outbuildings.
“It is also suitable as temporary accommodation for disaster relief and we would be interested in hearing from anyone who thinks we might be able to help them in this way,” Jeremy added.
dl bio composites is now investigating applications of plant-based bio composites in the construction and automotive industries and will be developing a range of low-carbon bio composite products over the next 12 months.
Dobulous Lifestyles' aims is to provide naturally sourced, beautifully crafted living spaces and materials wherever it is needed in the world.
