Fabrication of energy-efficient cement panels from construction waste for sustainable building application

Abstract

Building panels in several forms have attracted scientific research lately as one of the most used building materials. However, the issue of low energy efficiency leading to high energy consumption as a wall component is predominant. This study's prime objective is to investigate the potential of recycled glass and wood sourced from construction waste for energy-efficient cement panels for sustainable building applications. The hardened cement panels’ thermal efficiency, heat loss, durability properties, and strength were determined. The experimental work indicated that cement panels made from construction waste-inspired materials could be an alternative to cement sand panels with improved operation. The main findings showed that annual energy consumption savings could be achieved by 70% compared to the typical cement sand panel. In addition, the cost and CO2 reductions of the cement panels can reach up to 18% and 3.3%, respectively. Other engineering features, including density and heat loss, exhibits improved performance. The study indicates that glass and wood waste could be utilized as cost-effective and sustainable construction materials that outperform natural sand as alternatives in energy efficiency performance as a building envelope. It offers a greener alternative for sand winning and construction waste disposal.