Project R-13907

Cross-Laminated Timber Components: Exploring the design of end-of-life scenarios through an applied research (Research)

The construction industry is one of the primary sources of anthropogenic pollutants worldwide. Buildings are responsible for a large share of material produced, for the large global consumption of energy and natural resources, and account for a significant environmental impact through atmospheric emissions and generated waste. Thus, addressing emissions and waste production is urgent and essential to answer the climate crisis The application of Circular Economy (CE) principles can offer an alternative path to the current linear, high-polluting, and wasteful practices in construction. Recent scientific literature states that implementing the concept of circularity in constructing timber buildings has a high potential to reduce the environmental impact in the sector. More specifically, Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) components have led to significant changes in timber construction as a new building technology. While the environmental benefits of CLT manufacturing and construction are well documented, CE potential is discussed much less. Moreover, their relative novelty means that more knowledge of possible component scenarios is needed at the end of their life. This study investigates the possibilities for prolonging the life cycle of timber construction materials, focusing on CLT components, from a Design for Disassembly and Reuse (DfDR) standpoint. The research is applied in nature, using mixed methods in its approach. It begins with a literature review, establishing a theoretical basis on DfDR with mass timber structures and providing an overview of fundamental challenges and trends. This task is followed by a series of environmental impact case study analyses to present quantitative data to understand the potential of circularity strategies for CLT building components. Finally, research-by-design will be used to analyse, propose and validate real-life possibilities of DfDR. This last task will explore opportunities for disassembly and effective post-use management of end-of-life of CLT components, optimising the material life cycle. This part compares and analyses the DfDR strategies for CLT components from the product-level, component-level, and strategy-level, laying the foundation for the CE principles for mass timber constructions and increasing their development potential in Western Europe. Consequently, the research will contribute to the reduction of the environmental burden of the construction sector by developing a qualified critical reflection promoting the reuse of CLT components.

16 February 2023 - 15 February 2027