Durra Panel

Durra Panel was nominated for the 2024 Earthshot Prize. Durra Panel was nominated by Geoffrey Hopwood from Standard Chartered Bank in Singapore. As you may know, this prestigious award was created by Prince William to discover, put in the spotlight and help grow innovative solutions that work towards repairing and regenerating the planet.

The material is composed entirely of reclaimed wheat and rice straw, a decision that not only helps to prevent the environmentally harmful practice of stubble burning but also plays a significant role in reducing overall carbon emissions associated with traditional agricultural waste disposal. This innovative approach provides a renewable, circular, and environmentally responsible construction solution that aligns with sustainable development goals.

The material is inherently and naturally effective at significantly reducing low-frequency noise that often originates from various sources, such as aircraft, industrial operations, and performance spaces. This capability ensures a quieter and more pleasant environment for both occupants and listeners. Furthermore, it effectively supports the dual requirements of sound absorption, which helps in minimizing echo and reverberation, as well as sound transmission loss, which is crucial for preventing the passage of undesirable noise through barriers.

The material has obtained certification as fire-resistant, specifically achieving a one-hour panel-to-panel joint rating, which indicates its effectiveness in resisting fire spread between sections. Additionally, it is important to note that this product is engineered to release no toxic fumes, flaming droplets, or dense smoke, thereby significantly enhancing safety during fire exposure events. This lack of harmful emissions not only protects individuals within the vicinity but also contributes to maintaining a healthier environment under stressful conditions.

Safer: Made from 100% reclaimed straw, Durra Panel is non-toxic and free from synthetic binders, creating a healthier environment for workers and occupants. Its lightweight modular system also reduces work-at-height risks by up to 95% during installation. Faster: Panels are large-format and mechanically fixed, allowing rapid installation without the need for skilled trades. This efficient system simplifies coordination on-site, minimizing downtime and accelerating project delivery. Lower Cost: With reduced labor requirements, minimal maintenance, and less material waste, Durra Panel offers significant cost savings. It is also a more economical alternative to conventional gypsum systems for ceiling applications.

In addition to sustainable ceiling and wall systems, Durra Panel products include prefabricated acoustic studio kits and modular homes that are fast to build, affordable, and environmentally friendly. Durra Panel Acoustic Studio Kits provide studio quality acoustic treatment and excellent sound absorption. PLACEit homes are lined with Durra Panel, and over 20 years ago, Durra Panel began supplying these prebuilt, demountable, and kit homes for disaster relief and charitable organizations in Australia and around the globe. We believe we can make a positive impact in the U.S. by supplying these homes to areas in need. In addition, we can also offer these units as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), providing an affordable and sustainable housing solution in both urban and suburban communities.