Performance Evaluation of Newly Developed Sustainable Blocks for Affordable Housing in Malaysia

Ashwin Narendra Raut,Christy Pathrose Gomez,J.-W Park,H Hardjasaputra,H Ay Lie,P Thayaalan

doi:10.1051/matecconf/201713801015

Ashwin Narendra Raut, Christy Pathrose Gomez + Show 4 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201713801015

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Abstract

The thermal design of affordable housing in Malaysia could be ineffective and resulting from this, the majority of their occupants are not satisfied with the thermal comfort levels provided. To overcome this issue of thermal performance of building envelope, the development of sustainable blocks has been done. The blocks have been developed using locally available sustainable waste materials. The materials utilized were mainly procured from agro-industrial waste (oil palm industry) and municipal waste (waste glass). The aim of the research was to provide a better performing material for low cost houses replacing the conventional red clay bricks. In this research, the physical, mechanical and thermal performance of the sustainable building blocks were examined and compared with existing conventional building blocks. The experimental findings revealed that the newly developed Sustainable blocks have better thermal performance as compared to conventional burnt clay bricks. However, the physico-mechanical performance complies with various standard practices thus proving to be a sustainable wall material.

Highlights

Construction activities are one the major contributors causing environmental pollution
It is evident that the construction sector consumes large quantity of ecological resources, resulting in serious negative environmental impacts
The Malaysian government has a requirement that for all private development, 30% of housing units should be of the low-cost housing type

Summary

Introduction

Construction activities are one the major contributors causing environmental pollution. Many private and government agencies are focusing on sustainable construction practices to overcome the negative environmental hazards caused by the construction sector. In the Tenth Malaysian Plan, it is stated that continuous efforts will be put into ensuring citizens of Malaysia of all income groups can have the opportunity to acquire hous es that are frequently referred to as “adequate, affordable and of good quality.”. The Malaysian government has a requirement that for all private development, 30% of housing units should be of the low-cost housing type. Studies bas ed on the various Malaysia Plans have shown that the government has been continuously encouraging the private sector to develop more low-cost houses and low-medium-cost houses. The Malaysian government’s commitment is stated to be the provision of quality and affordable housing, the aspect of indoor comfort is noted to be unsatisfactory [3]. There is certainly a need for providing a sustainable solution in providing better indoor air comfort levels , which is best done by utilizing sustainable locally available resources (materials)

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