Environmental performance analysis of insulated composite facade panels using life cycle assessment (LCA)

Abstract

The construction sector, which accounts for 10% of global economic activity, consumes approximately 40% of the world’s energy and materials. Besides, it accounts for the consumption of 17% of world water resources and 25% of manufactured wood and is responsible for about 50% of greenhouse gas emissions. This situation makes the assessment of the environmental impact of construction materials fundamental. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology is a scientific method that is used to identify, report and manage the environmental impacts of a product, starting with the acquisition of raw materials, including production, shipment, consumer use, and disposal as waste after use. In this study, environmental effects of 50 mm thick polyurethane and rockwool filled composite facade panels were determined by using LCA method and compared. Hence, the facade panels' cradle-to-gate process (raw material supply, production and disposal phases) were examined. As a result of the study, it is seen that the polyurethane filled composite facade panel has more advantageous environmental performance than the rockwool filled composite facade panel.