Development of green energy-saving biocomposite thermoplaster upcycling Prunus amygdalus waste: A preliminary assessment in mountain road guard house

Abstract

This study explores the development and the application of novel green biocomposite mortars by incorporating recycled almond shells, an agri-food waste deriving from local confectionery industry, to improve energy efficiency in buildings, in line with the European Green Deal. Shells were used as an aggregate in partial replacement (up to 75 % in volume) of the commercial sand, in light of the Circular Economy approach and the Minimum Environmental Criteria. The prepared mixes were fully analyzed to evaluate their technological potential in construction. Primary findings demonstrated a significant reduction in thermal conductivity (up to 64 %), highlighting the mortars’ high suitability for energy-efficient applications. To this end, virtual energy modelling was implemented to isolate the energy contribution of the produced mixes in a building model under different climatic conditions. A case study was individuated on a traditional Road Guard House in the Madonie Mountain UNESCO Geopark (Sicily) and is studied as an intelligent strategy for the development of smart villages in rural areas. The Madonie 21 municipalities were clustered by altitude and climatic zones, and building type is presented. Results demonstrated a building energy improvement up to 15 % compared to traditional materials in accordance with the provisions of EU Directive 2018/844 on the energy performance of buildings. At the same time, almond shells-based mortars can be also used in contemporary architecture, without comprising its efficacy. Also, a diverse and more sustainable waste management, typically destined for landfills or incineration, is proposed contributing to pollution reduction, sustainability promotion, and climate change fight, in accordance with the 2030 Agenda.