The startup founded by Dmytro Kharytonenko and Yan Kormelytsyn is called 3B Plitos. They manufacture artificial gravel made from recycled plastic, which can be used in construction and even replace concrete. During the Ukrainian Investment Congress, Dmytro shared with dev.ua the details of how the startup was created, the technology behind it, as well as their collaboration and future plans.
The idea to create eco-friendly building materials that could also address the issue of environmental pollution came from a team of young innovators led by Dmytro Kharytonenko and his friend Yan Kormelytsyn. One of the most promising directions of their work became the project to create artificial gravel from recycled plastic — an innovative material for construction that has the potential to change traditional approaches to waste use in the industry.
"The idea came from my friend Yan, who is a developer, and I deal with the practical part — the production and implementation of building structures like concrete benches and trash bins. We thought we could use plastic to create materials that could replace gravel in construction," Dmytro explains.
One of the most innovative aspects of their startup is the recycling of CO2, which is pumped into the cavities of the artificial gravel. This process effectively disposes of carbon dioxide, which is released into the atmosphere during production, turning it into an important component of the material. Since artificial gravel has cavities inside, CO2 can fill these spaces, making the material not only eco-friendly but also actively contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
"This process is extremely important for reducing atmospheric pollution. Plastic, which usually pollutes the environment, is turned into a useful material, and CO2, which would otherwise remain in the atmosphere, is captured in our gravel," Dmytro explains.
Practical Benefits Another important advantage of artificial gravel is the significant reduction in the weight of concrete structures. Thanks to the use of recycled plastic, which is lighter than traditional gravel, constructions made from this material are 30% lighter. This is particularly important for large building elements like facade panels or slabs, which reduces the overall weight and, consequently, the costs for transportation and installation.
