Utilization of sawdust composites in construction—a review

• Published in: SN applied sciences 2023-05, Vol.5 (5), p.140-25, Article 140
• Main Authors: Olaiya, Bamidele Charles, Lawan, Mustapha Muhammad, Olonade, Kolawole Adisa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied and Technical Physics; Ashes; Bricks; Building materials; Carbon; Carbon footprint; Cement; Chemistry/Food Science; Composite materials; Compressive strength; Concrete; Concrete construction; Construction; Construction costs; Construction materials; Cost control; Design; Durability; Earth Sciences; Emissions; Energy efficiency; Engineering; Environment; Environmental impact; Flexibility; Footprint analysis; Green buildings; Greenhouse effect; Greenhouse gases; Hardwoods; Heat conductivity; Insulation; International standards; Materials Science; Mechanical properties; Modulus of elasticity; Occupational safety; Outdoor air quality; Recycling; Review Paper; Safety; Sand; Sawdust; Sawdust with sawdust composites; Sawmills; Sound; Sound transmission; Sustainability; Sustainable materials; Sustainable production; Thermal conductivity; Timber; Timber industry; Utilization; Waste materials
• ISSN: 2523-3963; 2523-3971
• DOI: 10.1007/s42452-023-05361-4

This study presents the use of sawdust ash as a substitute in the production of sustainable building materials. Inappropriate dispose of wood-waste causes serious environmental problems as it results in atmospheric degradation, emissions of greenhouse gases and the destruction of aquatic and organic products. This review article combines research results from past studies into the usage of sawdust as an alternative for essential elements in construction composites. The result of this study shows that structural concrete can be manufactured with compressive strengths more than 20 MPa by replacing moderately 5–17% of the sand with sawdust or 5–15% of the cement with sawdust ash. By partially substituting sawdust that ranges between 10 and 30% of sand used in the production of blocks and bricks, sawdust blocks and bricks having compressive strengths greater than 3 MPa can be created. According to the findings of this study, sawdust has the potential to make construction composites that are strong, absorb water, and have an elastic modulus that meet international standards. The study concludes that sawdust composites are intriguing due to having hushed heat conductivity, a prominent sound absorption, as well as efficient sound wadding. From the findings, it is demonstrated that an increase in the utilization of sawdust for construction purposes will reduce the possibility of sawdust as a pollution to the environment, and will also ease the costs of disposal. Article Highlight: Key findings and implications of the paper Utilization of sawdust composite in construction is relevant because it can serve as a sustainable material; Sawdust been a byproduct of the timber industry is often considered waste. However, by utilizing sawdust in composite materials, it provides a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials such as concrete or steel. Also, it helps improve insulation because sawdust composites have excellent insulation properties due to their low thermal conductivity, making them ideal for use in walls, floors, and roofs. Additionally, it helps reduce cost of construction because composites of sawdust are typically less expensive than traditional building materials, thus making them an attractive option for cost-conscious builders. Sawdust composites are lightweight and easy to handle, thus making them ideal for use in structures where weight is a concern. Also, it helps improved durability; Sawdust is highly durable and resistant to decay, mak