Utilizing Coconut Waste in Construction: A Sustainable Approach for a Circular Economy
摘要
In Brazil, the consumption of coconut generates a substantial amount of biomass waste, which, if not disposed of properly, can lead to various environmental concerns, including soil and water contamination. Literature on the subject has identified potential applications for this waste in the field of civil construction materials. Several studies have been conducted on the properties of materials developed with coconut biomass waste, and these have noted its potential to function as a good thermal insulator in civil construction, with thermal conductivity being one example of a property that has been evaluated. In this context, the present study provides an overview of coconut production in Brazil, the consequent generation of waste, and the management of the waste generated. The study also explores the potential of utilizing this waste in civil construction, with a particular focus on its impact on the thermal conductivity of the developed construction elements. The findings of the research underscore the necessity for initiatives to encourage the utilization of coconut waste, particularly in light of Brazil’s annual production of over 2 million tons of waste from the consumption of the fruit and its by-products. The study also validates the potential of this waste to be employed in the development of construction materials, thereby promoting benefits such as enhanced thermal insulation.