<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><ns2:project xmlns:ns1="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api" xmlns:ns2="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project" xmlns:ns3="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/fund" xmlns:ns4="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/person" xmlns:ns5="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project/outcome" xmlns:ns6="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/organisation" ns1:created="2026-07-08T08:44:08Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/projects/29080695-F33B-49C9-A439-D0E600AE10EE" ns1:id="29080695-F33B-49C9-A439-D0E600AE10EE"><ns1:links><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/persons/5B32C216-E4B8-4365-8BC7-D4A284558A03" ns1:rel="PM_PER"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/3894FD85-0A68-49AD-AD75-6652B041C5BB" ns1:rel="LEAD_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/3894FD85-0A68-49AD-AD75-6652B041C5BB" ns1:rel="PARTICIPANT_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:end="2026-03-30T23:00:00Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/funds/49D63BEF-8FCF-4801-8684-CFA3E0F5B7C1" ns1:rel="FUND" ns1:start="2026-02-01T00:00:00Z"/></ns1:links><ns2:identifiers><ns2:identifier ns2:type="RCUK">10179730</ns2:identifier></ns2:identifiers><ns2:title>StrucLock: Feasibility of Containerised Micro-Factories for Circular Construction</ns2:title><ns2:status>Closed</ns2:status><ns2:grantCategory>Collaborative R&amp;D</ns2:grantCategory><ns2:leadFunder>Innovate UK</ns2:leadFunder><ns2:abstractText>StrucLock is developing a modular construction system that transforms recycled plastic and textile waste into high-performance building blocks. Designed for disassembly, reuse, and low-impact construction, these blocks combine structural strength with built-in insulation and service channels---eliminating the need for additional framing, plasterboard, or insulation materials. This approach significantly reduces construction waste, simplifies assembly, and enables buildings to be dismantled and relocated rather than demolished.

To scale this system sustainably, StrucLock is carrying a case study creating a fully self-contained micro-factory housed inside a shipping container. This portable production unit will enable localised manufacturing of modular building components near waste sources or construction sites. The aim is to shorten supply chains, reduce emissions, and deliver cost-effective, resource-efficient manufacturing that communities can operate independently.

By integrating multiple stages of recycled material processing into a single compact unit, the project introduces a new model for decentralised construction manufacturing. The containerised system supports a circular economy by turning local waste into valuable construction materials while reducing the need for imported virgin resources and energy-intensive production.

This innovation has strong potential to support regional economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Each micro-factory could create direct and indirect jobs, reduce reliance on traditional carbon-heavy materials, and help meet low-carbon building targets. The system also addresses critical housing challenges by enabling faster, lower-cost construction using locally sourced materials and labour.

StrucLock's project aligns with national priorities around circular economy, sustainable construction, and waste reduction. The development of this portable, low-energy, low-water manufacturing system marks an important step toward scalable, decentralised solutions that combine environmental benefits with social impact.</ns2:abstractText></ns2:project>