An Up-To-Date Review of Sawdust Usage in Construction Materials

Abstract

Carbon emissions, and expensive raw building materials with high risk of being scarce in the future would expose both global nature and sustainability of construction to danger. In response, many countries are drawing modern strategies for a greener environment by adopting recycled and eco-friendly materials in construction including waste, used wood or sawdust wastes. The present article brings the most distinctive studies and promising methods related to sawdust presence in concrete and bricks. Both physical and mechanical properties were covered. Sawdust waste was successfully found to partially replace cementitious materials or natural aggregates without adverse deterioration. Most studies suggest a 5 to 20% volume or weight content to be the optimum and a safe sawdust replacement level. However, maintaining desirable strength with a high sawdust content (≥20%) requires extra treatment to the sawdust including but not limited to boiling, washing, adding sodium silicate, and curing with sodium sulphate bath. Aside from that, adding sawdust was profoundly effective at reducing density, and improving thermal and sound insulation in buildings. The findings herein promote the utilization of sawdust in structural elements such as interior and exterior walls, ceilings, partition blocks, and non-load bearing panels. This scope offers an opportunity to create a greener environment, affordable construction, and proficient investment in natural resources.

Keywords

• Sawdust
• Recycled material
• Lightweight concrete
• Thermal conductivity
• Sound insulation