A Comprehensive Review of Sustainable Thermal and Acoustic Insulation Materials from Various Waste Sources
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient construction has driven significant interest in the development of advanced insulation materials that reduce energy usage while minimizing environmental impact. Although conventional insulation materials such as polyurethane, polystyrene, and mineral wools offer excellent thermal and acoustic performance, they are derived from non-renewable sources, have high embodied carbon (EC) (up to 7.3 kg CO2-eq/kg), and pose end-of-life disposal challenges. Thus, this review critically examines the emergence of insulation materials derived from natural and recycled sources, which align with circular economy principles by minimizing waste, promoting material reuse, and extending product life cycles. Sustainable alternatives such as sheep wool, hemp, flax, and jute not only exhibit competitive thermal conductivity (as low as 0.031–0.046 W/m·K) and very good sound absorption but also offer low EC, biodegradability, and regional availability. Despite some limitations, including variable fire resistance and thickness requirements, these bio-based insulators present a viable path toward greener building solutions. The review highlights that waste-based insulation materials are essential for sustainable construction due to their low EC, renewability, and contribution to waste reduction, making them a necessary alternative even when conventional materials demonstrate superior short-term performance.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Mohamed Ouda, Ala A. Abu Sanad, Ali Abdelaal, Aparna Krishna, Munther Kandah, Jamal Kurdi
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W7084113270