Durability of cement mortars reinforced with insulation waste from the construction industry

• Published in: Journal of Building Engineering 2021-08, Vol.40, p.102719, Article 102719
• Main Authors: Ramírez, Carolina Piña, Río Merino, Mercedes del, Arrebola, Carmen Viñas, Barriguete, Alejandra Vidales, Benito, Patricia Aguilera
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Construction and demolition waste; Durability; Mineral wool; Mortar; Recycling
• ISSN: 2352-7102; 2352-7102
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2021.102719

This research analyzes the durability of mineral wool waste from insulation materials used in the construction industry as reinforcement elements in cements matrices. In order to do this, an experimental plan was drawn up, detailing the production of cement mortar samples containing different types of fibers from insulation waste, on which freeze-thaw, salt crystallization, water vapor permeability, occluded air content and workability period tests were performed, in order to assess their use as raw materials. The test results show that the properties of these new mortars, containing insulation waste, remain optimal over time making them a sustainable alternative for use in outdoor settings. •Cement mortars containing insulation waste remain optimal over time.•Mortars with fibre residues are a sustainable alternative for use in outdoor settings.•The use of this insulation waste improving the planet's ecological footprint.•The reuse of the insulation material minimizes the environmental impact by reducing the use of sand.