Fire-resistant panels made from watermelon seeds

Contesto

In brief - Fire-resistant panels made with watermelon seeds - Discovery by the Polytechnic of Zurich - Recyclable and self-extinguishing material ## Key facts - What: Fire-resistant panels with watermelon seeds - When: May 2, 2026 - Where: Federal Polytechnic of Zurich - Who: Ronny Kürsteiner, PhD student at the Polytechnic of Zurich - Amount: Not yet specified The tragedy of Crans-Montana has brought attention back to a crucial issue: the choice of construction materials that can make a difference in fire protection. Now, a promising proposal comes from the Federal Polytechnic of Zurich: fire-resistant panels made with watermelon seed powder. Mixed with sawdust, urea, struvite, and water, the powder of watermelon seeds can become the base of a material that takes a long time to catch fire. Not only that: according to the researchers, the composite can even extinguish itself. ### How does it work? Ronny Kürsteiner, a PhD student at the Polytechnic of Zurich, explains the mechanism. The behavior of the material, he reports, depends partly on the struvite: when heated, it decomposes and releases gas. This process has a double effect: on the one hand, it removes heat because decomposition itself requires it; on the other hand, it helps to remove oxygen from the surface. In this way, explains Kürsteiner, 'a protective layer of non-flammable gas is formed.' The discovery was born from the work of researchers at the Polytechnic of Zurich in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA). The role of watermelon seeds is linked to their enzyme, which allows the crystallization of struvite together with the sawdust. For the moment, the so-called watermelon panels are still in the experimental phase; only small samples have been...

Dettagli operativi

Implications for Ticino The discovery by the Zurich Polytechnic could have significant implications for the Canton of Ticino, where fire safety is a priority. Panels made from watermelon seeds could be used in new constructions or for the restoration of existing buildings, offering greater protection against fires. Additionally, the possibility of recycling the material could reduce the environmental impact of constructions, an aspect increasingly relevant in urban planning. ### Comparison with Traditional Materials Traditional panels used in Switzerland, such as those made of chipboard bonded with cement, already offer good fire protection. However, the new material developed by the Zurich Polytechnic presents significant advantages in terms of sustainability and recyclability. This could make watermelon panels a preferable choice for new constructions, especially in areas at high risk of fires. ### Future Scenarios If watermelon panels were to be adopted on a large scale, they could become a key element in the construction of public and private buildings in Ticino. Their self-extinguishing capability could reduce the risk of fires and improve building safety. Furthermore, the possibility of recycling the material could encourage the use of these panels in sustainable construction projects. ### Comparison with the Previous Situation Before this discovery, materials used for fire protection were mainly based on cement and other chemical compounds. Watermelon panels represent an innovative alternative that could revolutionize the sector. Their self-extinguishing capability and sustainability make them a promising choice for the future. ## Recommended tools For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Punti chiave

What cross-border workers should do For cross-border workers in Ticino, the discovery of watermelon panels could have a significant impact. If these materials are adopted in new constructions, they could offer greater fire safety in the buildings where they work or live. Moreover, the sustainability of the material could contribute to a safer and more environmentally friendly work environment. ### Procedure for adopting new materials To adopt watermelon panels, a specific procedure will be necessary. First, builders will need to collaborate with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich to produce larger-sized panels. Subsequently, the materials will need to be tested and certified to ensure their safety and compliance with Swiss standards. Finally, the panels can be used in new constructions or for the restoration of existing buildings. ### Useful tools To delve deeper into the implications of this discovery, cross-border workers can use the salary calculator to assess the economic impact of new constructions. Additionally, they can consult the practical guides available on the site to better understand the procedures and requirements for adopting new building materials. ### Conclusion The discovery of fire-resistant panels made from watermelon seeds represents a significant step forward in fire protection. For cross-border workers in Ticino, this innovation could offer greater safety and sustainability. By using the tools available on the site, it is possible to explore the practical implications of this discovery and prepare for future applications. Source: rsi.ch

Punti chiave

[{"q":"What are the advantages of watermelon panels compared to traditional materials?","a":"Watermelon panels offer greater fire resistance and the ability to self-extinguish. Additionally, they are recyclable, making them a more sustainable choice compared to traditional materials."},{"q":"How can cross-border workers benefit from this discovery?","a":"Cross-border workers can benefit from the enhanced fire safety provided by watermelon panels in the buildings where they work or live. Furthermore, the sustainability of the material contributes to a safer and more environmentally friendly work environment."},{"q":"What are the future applications of watermelon panels?","a":"Future applications of watermelon panels include interior construction, where fireproof partition walls are needed. Additionally, they could be used in new constructions or for the restoration of existing buildings."}]

Related articles

• Italia dei sospetti: scandali VAR, Minetti e tensioni italo-svizzere
• Ginnastica artistica: giovani talenti brillano ai Campionati ticinesi
• Sergi punta di nuovo alla presidenza del basket ticinese
• Automobilisti stranieri rischiano la sicurezza all'entrata autostradale di Faido-Chiggiogna
• Scontri in pensilina a Lugano: feriti e tensioni crescenti