Applicability of Face Masks as Recyclable Raw Materials for Self-Made Insulation Panels

Eugenia Rossi di Schio, Vincenzo Ballerini, Jan Kašpar, Manuela Neri, Mariagrazia Pilotelli, Edoardo Alessio Piana and Paolo Valdiserri ()
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Eugenia Rossi di Schio: Department of Industrial Engineering, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
Vincenzo Ballerini: Department of Industrial Engineering, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
Jan Kašpar: Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
Manuela Neri: Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
Mariagrazia Pilotelli: Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
Edoardo Alessio Piana: Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
Paolo Valdiserri: Department of Industrial Engineering, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 7, 1-15

Abstract: The circular economy model is based on the 4R framework—reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover. While recycling was the primary focus in the past, the shortage of raw materials and the desire to reduce carbon footprints have led to a change in focus: end-of-life materials are now considered resources rather than waste. When discharged, end-of-life materials still possess properties that can be exploited. For this reason, a comprehensive characterization of reusable materials is mandatory to reduce waste and increase material availability. The reuse of waste materials, such as surgical masks, is of particular interest in giving people in disadvantaged contexts the opportunity to self-produce and self-install panels within their homes, with the dual result of improving indoor comfort and increasing human capital. This paper focuses on the identification of a possible second application for surgical face masks through experimental characterization. Panels made of masks were tested for water vapor permeability, thermal conductivity, and fire resistance and their use as insulating material in the building sector was discussed. Based on the results, surgical face masks are suitable as thermal insulating materials, do not pose safety concerns, and can reduce energy consumption and improve thermal comfort when installed indoors.

Keywords: surgical face masks; circular economy; sustainable materials; energy efficiency (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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