Customizing cardboard as a binder for ecofriendly lightweight building materials

Abstract

Recycling paper and cardboard wastes are becoming important to maintaining a green world. In 2018 manufacturing building materials and their constructions account for 39% of global emissions (13.5 billion tons of CO2). This danger alarm requires immediate action towards seeking for alternatives like traditional materials that have less impact on the environment. Therefore, the current study suggests using new combinations to develop lightweight green building materials. The current research proposes to conduct experimental studies to examine the optimal method for customizing cardboard as a binder for ecofriendly building materials. 17 different mixes were considered in the experimental program; none of these mixes contained cement or consumed any kind of energy. The aim is to develop sustainable lightweight construction materials. Experimental strength results showed a higher strength (up to 7.5 MPa) for some developed substances 22% higher than the strength of traditional mud samples and simultaneously reduction in their weights (dry density 1600 to 1600 kg m-3) in between 13%-16% with superior outdoor durability performance. With these promising results and advantages, the current study can be considered as a primary step towards production of ecofriendly building materials.