Image credit: Kaniaw Marof.
Innovative Mortar Utilizing Recycled Plastics for Enhanced Insulation
Researchers from Newcastle University have introduced an innovative mortar composed of recycled plastics and construction-eco-friendly-mortar-blend-transforms-waste-plastic-into-superior-insulation/” title=”Revolutionizing Construction: Eco-Friendly Mortar Blend Transforms Waste Plastic into Superior Insulation!”>silica aerogel, aiming to tackle plastic waste while also improving thermal insulation. This eco-conscious building material is expected to help homeowners save on heating and cooling expenses.
The novel mix replaces traditional sand with silica aerogel and recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic, leading to enhanced thermal performance and noticeably lighter weight. Known for their exceptional insulating properties, aerogels are increasingly adopted in various sectors, notably in construction and aerospace engineering.
Significant Findings Published in Construction Materials Journal
As detailed in the journal “Construction and Building Materials,” this team’s research indicates that their modified mortar can reduce heat loss by as much as 55% when compared to standard mortar options, while still satisfying structural integrity requirements essential for masonry work.
Moreover, this new formulation complies with international building standards (BS-EN 413-1:2011, ASTM C270-10, AS 1012/AS 3700), offering a sustainable alternative aimed at energy-efficient construction methodologies.
Combating Heat Loss Through Sustainable Techniques
This innovation could significantly enhance sustainable building practices by addressing heat loss due to thermal bridging. Such issues commonly arise from the gaps between bricks filled with traditional mortars within wall structures.
Professor Lidija Šiller from Newcastle University’s School of Engineering emphasized the study’s findings benefits not only for environmental health but also economically by reducing heating costs associated with new constructions. She remarked on the potential dual impact of lowering plastic waste globally while simultaneously decreasing living expenses due to reduced energy consumption.
Research Methodology Behind the New Mortar Mix
In their experiments, researchers explored seven different formulations alongside conventional mortars. The most successful variant combined untreated silica aerogels making up 7% of the mix augmented with 3% recycled PET plastic particles derived from shredded plastic bottles measuring between 2.5mm to 3.5mm in size.
To ensure cleanliness post-shredding, these particulates were washed with water then air-dried at room temperature for a day before incorporation into the mix.
Key properties such as setting time, flowability—the capability of cement mortar to hold its form—density ratings, strength assessments, and thermal conductivity were meticulously analyzed during testing phases.
Remarkably enough, they observed a reduction of up to 55% in thermal conductivity relative to standard samples containing no enhancements.
Looking Ahead: Testing New Formulations on Construction Projects
PhD candidate Kaniaw Marof noted that enhancing insulation performance remains crucial amidst today’s focus on energy efficiency within modern construction practices. The team has yet aspirations toward practical applications; they plan further examinations involving large-scale projects outside laboratory settings under real-world conditions.
Professor Šiller shared future goals include engaging collaboration opportunities with local construction firms interested in funding initiatives that could deploy their innovative mortar solution into actual residential projects—thereby facilitating empirical evaluations regarding potential energy savings alongside economic feasibility studies linked specifically designed masonry applications.
Reference: Kaniaw Marof & Lidija Šiller., “Enhancing Thermal Insulation Using Silica Aerogel Combined With Recycled PET Plastic,” Construction and Building Materials, Volume 467 (2025) Article ID 140320, https//doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2025.140320
