From bio-residues to construction applications: A comprehensive framework

Politecnico di Milano, ABC Department, Via Giuseppe Ponzio, n. 31, 20133, Milano, Italy

^* Corresponding author: ilaria.pugliese@polimi.it

Abstract

Due to their ability to store carbon during growth, biomaterials are currently gaining attention in the construction sector to produce alternative building bio-components. Bio-residues in particular are quite promising, as applying them in construction might enhance strategies of circular bio-based economy. However, despite many studies and few products already on the market, a clear classification of bio-residues has not been available yet, and the experiences related to construction applications are scattered and fragmented. Hence, this paper offers a comprehensive framework by visualizing the production flows from bio-residues to building components. It operates a review of contemporary bio-manufacturing processes by classifying them based on their primary bio-sources, and it provides critical knowledge of their advancements, by displaying both established and emerging possibilities. By doing so, the study identifies lower energy-intensive applications, involving the direct transformation of fibrous agricultural materials into insulation building products, and more complex processes encompassing the extraction of intermediary bio-products, such as cellulose, and polymeric biocomposite. These last are starting points for promising technologies like electrospinning and additive manufacturing, with disruptive potential in manufacturing advancement. Indeed, the research highlights future research directions and initiates a potential tool to aid stakeholders in decision-making for a more sustainable built environment.