Comparative LCA of Ground Floor Systems with Focus on Material Choices

¹ Faculty of Civil Engineering, Centre of Research and Innovation in Construction, Technical University of Košice, Park Komenského 10A, 042 00 Košice, Slovak Republic
² Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute for Sustainable and Circular Construction, Technical University of Košice, Vysokoškolská 4, 042 00 Košice, Slovak Republic
³ Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute of Technology, Economics and Management in Construction, Technical University of Košice, Vysokoškolská 4, 042 00 Košice, Slovak Republic
⁴ Faculty of Civil Engineering, Institute of Architectural Engineering, Technical University of Košice, Vysokoškolská 4, 042 00 Košice, Slovak Republic

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

This paper discusses the environmental life cycle aspects of three variants of ground floor constructions using different insulation materials: EPS thermal insulation (F1), foam glass (F2) and stone wool (F3). The objective is to analyse the environmental impacts of each variant throughout its entire life cycle using Life Cycle Assessment method. Regarding insulation materials, it can be characterizing foam glass as material with high moisture resistance, long-term stability, recycling potential and low overall environmental footprint. Stone wool offers excellent thermal insulation properties, is made from natural raw materials, has a long lifespan, and is recyclable. EPS insulation, while affordable and lightweight, has a higher environmental impact during production and disposal. The analysis shows that the environmental sustainability of these materials is largely influenced by their production processes and the potential for reuse and recycling. According to the multi-criteria decision analysis, F1 is the most suitable choice, with F3 variant ranking second and F2 identified as the least favourable option. These findings provide valuable insights for builders and architects seeking to minimise the environmental impact of floor structures.