Circular Solutions for the Built Environment: Thermal Insulation from Upcycled Waste

Mohd Faizal, Nurul Jannah, Amir Aziat, Raheem K. Ajeel, Sakhr M. Sultan, Adnan Ibrahim, Ahmad Fazlizan and Ubaidah Syafiq
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Mohd Faizal: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
Nurul Jannah: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
Amir Aziat: School of Engineering, Taylor’s University Lakeside campus, 47500 Selangor Malaysia
Raheem K. Ajeel: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
Sakhr M. Sultan: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
Adnan Ibrahim: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
Ahmad Fazlizan: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
Ubaidah Syafiq: Solar Energy Research Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 9, 6659-6673

Abstract: The transition to a circular economy in the construction sector requires innovative approaches to reduce resource consumption, embodied energy, and greenhouse gas emissions. Thermal insulation materials, traditionally derived from petrochemicals or mineral resources, contribute significantly to the environmental footprint of buildings despite their role in improving energy efficiency. This paper explores recent advances (2019–2025) in the development of thermal insulation materials sourced from upcycled waste streams, including textiles, paper, plastics, rubber, agricultural residues, and industrial by-products. Reported thermal conductivities (λ = 0.032–0.08 W·m⠻¹·K⠻¹) demonstrate performance on par with conventional mineral wool and foams, while simultaneously diverting waste from landfills and promoting resource circularity. Processing methods range from low-energy mechanical consolidation to advanced aerogel and geopolymerisation techniques, with trade-offs between scalability, cost, and performance durability. Life cycle assessments highlight up to 80% reductions in embodied carbon compared with conventional foams, though outcomes depend strongly on feedstock logistics and the use of additives. Key challenges include heterogeneity of waste inputs, regulatory certification, long-term durability, and market acceptance. Addressing these barriers through harmonised testing standards, bio-based performance enhancers, decentralised production models, and supportive policy instruments could accelerate widespread adoption. Waste-derived thermal insulation materials thus represent a critical pathway for advancing circular solutions in the built environment, enabling sustainable, low-carbon construction practices.

Date: 2025
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