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In high-performance civil construction, MCFR emerges as an alternative to concrete: more than 23 times stronger, lighter and capable of withstanding winds in excess of 443 km/h
The construction industry is facing a silent revolution that promises to forever transform the way how we build houses, buildings and urban complexes. This revolution comes from the United States, where the company RENCO developed an innovative construction system based on ecological modular bricks, inspired by LEGO blocks and made from recycled materials.
Known as MCFR (fiber-reinforced mineral composite), this modern brick represents a strong, lightweight and environmentally conscious solution, positioning itself as a real alternative to traditional concrete. In addition to contributing to sustainability, the technology offers surprising structural performance, being up to 23 times stronger than concrete and withstanding winds of up to 443 km/h.
A technology inspired by the simplicity of LEGO
The MCFR block system uses the modular interlocking concept, similar to that of children's toys. This eliminates the need for mortar, allows for quick assembly and drastically reduces construction time. The pieces are joined together using a special methyl methacrylate adhesive, without the need for heavy equipment or specialized labor.
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Additionally, this type of construction offers high precision, avoiding alignment errors and ensuring a safer structure. Each piece is produced with industrial precision and certified to meet US construction standards, such as International Building Code (IBC).
Composition and technical properties of MCFR bricks
MCFR blocks are produced from recycled materials including:
- Recycled glass fibers;
- High-density recycled plastic (HDPE);
- Industrial plastic resin;
- Limestone and natural mineral components.
The combination of these materials results in a final product with the following characteristics:
- Resistance 23 times greater than conventional concrete;
- Inertness to water, mold and humidity;
- Fire and corrosion resistance;
- High resistance to termites and biological agents;
- Ability to withstand winds of up to 275 MPH (443 km/h);
- Reduced weight: each block weighs less than 3,5 kg.
These data have been confirmed by independent engineering tests and comply with ASTM and TAS standards, which evaluate resistance to loads, weathering and environmental impact.
Sustainable and affordable homes
RENCO’s proposal goes beyond replacing concrete. It’s about creating a more affordable, sustainable and faster-to-build solution. The MCFR system has already been used in pilot projects in the United States, such as the condominium Lakewood Village, in Florida, consisting of 96 housing units. The project was completed in just two months, with a team of 11 workers — most of whom had no previous experience in construction.
This simplicity allows the system to be implemented on a large scale, including in countries with a high housing deficit. By dispensing with expensive equipment, reducing the use of cement and requiring fewer workers, the total cost of the project also decreases substantially.
Environmental impact reduction
One of the great advantages of MCFR bricks is the reduction of environmental impact. From manufacturing to final assembly, the system:
- Does not generate toxic waste or debris;
- Does not emit polluting gases during construction;
- Uses reduced energy in production;
- Allows reuse of components in future demolitions.
According to data released by D5 MAG magazine, the use of the MCFR system reduces carbon emissions during the construction process by up to 80%, compared to traditional concrete and steel structures.
International recognition
In 2023, RENCO co-founder Thomas P. Murphy was honored at the event BLT Built Design Awards, held in Lucerne, Switzerland, for its contribution to innovation and sustainability in the construction sector. This recognition is an indication of the global potential of the technology.
How RENCO intends to expand this model
With approval and certification in the United States, RENCO has already begun the process of expanding to other countries. The company is considering setting up local factories in emerging markets, including Brazil, where there is strong demand for affordable and sustainable housing solutions.
According to recent reports, RENCO’s new plant in Jupiter, Florida, will have the capacity to produce enough bricks for more than 6.000 homes per year. This volume is expected to double with new facilities in the next decade.
The future of modular construction
The adoption of construction systems such as MCFR represents a paradigm shift. Instead of relying on expensive, polluting and time-consuming models, the civil industry is turning to modular, clean and affordable solutions. Eco-bricks can become a viable alternative for public projects, reconstruction of areas affected by natural disasters and construction of affordable housing.
Furthermore, the simplicity and agility of the system can attract the private sector and real estate investors interested in reducing costs and accelerating deliveries.
RENCO’s MCFR bricks are more than a technological curiosity — they represent a real, effective and sustainable solution to today’s construction challenges. With their high strength, easy assembly and environmental appeal, these blocks are shaping the future of housing.
As governments and construction companies seek viable alternatives to combat the housing deficit and reduce the sector's environmental footprint, technologies like this are becoming increasingly relevant.
For more information, access the RENCO official website and follow the company's new projects and implementations.
