Bio-based solutions for eco-efficient construction

The construction industry consumes massive quantities of materials with a share of 40% of the current worldwide resource consumption of nature resources. In order to decrease the impact of this industrial chain in the global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, novel construction solutions are needed including also recyclable and reusable products. Bio-based products and new fibre concepts have potential to substitute fossil-based products and bring new eco-efficient solutions to the built environment. This paper explores the potential of new wooden fibre and nanocellulose products targeting new construction solutions. These include wood-based composites as well as composites of wood with other natural fibres. Particular focus is given to recyclable and reusable products from wood and construction industry sidestreams. Current applications and new solutions at different stages of research and development, in Finland, are presented and case-studies described. The combination of wood and other natural fibres with selected polymers and plastics processing technologies offers exciting new opportunities for developing bio-composite and wood plastic composite products. The recycling of wood and plastic material decreases natural raw material consumptions.. In different process nano-fibres can be used to modify material properties and thus create products that better correspond to future market needs. These processes create new materials for the construction industry with improved properties supporting better thermal insulation, acoustics and a healthy indoor environment. The application of nanotechnologies, on the other hand, allows for the development of functional products with an active role in the built environment.