Around 95% of the value of construction materials is lost as buildings decay into obsolescence and then demolition. This is largely due to the ‘take, make, dispose’ model currently at the heart of the industry.As a result, the industry contributes approximately one thirds of the world’s waste. One area of focus for Kingspan is what do we do with our PIR production waste to prevent it going direct to landfill?
To play our part in tackling this problem, we have partnered with Atlanta based Belter Tech, a manufacturer of building materials made from reclaimed waste products. They are taking PIR production waste from our Kingspan Insulated Panels North America business and keeping it in use within the economy.
Our 10-yearPlanet Passionateprogramme includes a target to be a zero waste to landfill company by 2030.
Reducing waste to landill and helping product development
PIR is a thermoset insulation that offers a high level of thermal efficiency relative to other commonly used insulants. The process begins with the insulation waste being granulated and then blended with cement to create a new concrete product (Belter Therm®) that can be used for floor and wall infill.
Belter Tech can reduce cement content with the inclusion of our production waste material in their manufacturing process.
Gerry Hughes, CEO and Founder at Belter Tech, said: “Combining our innovative Patent Pending Mix with Kingspan's PIR waste not only diverts landfill waste but also enhances the performance of concrete.
“By optimizing air incorporation and improving water hydration, Belter Tech has created a construction solution that reduces stress cracks during curing and eliminates the need for air entrainment for freeze-thaw cycles. This provides increased density and durability which ensures a stronger finished outcome thus improving the anticipated longevity of the build.”
Brent Trenga, Director of Sustainability for Kingspan Insulated Panels North America, said: “We are excited to work with Belter Tech. Innovative initiatives such as this are helping us better understand how material could potentially be remanufactured as a raw material for new products such as the Belter Tech product in the future when it is removed from buildings at end-of-life.”
