Circular economy in polyisocyanurate-based insulation: lifecycle cost and glycolysis recycling modelling

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the economic impact of the integration of circular economy (CE) principles into the recycling processes of polyisocyanurate (PIR)-based building thermal insulation.

Design/methodology/approach: The study focuses on the glycolysis recycling of PIR waste and identifies factors influencing the cost-effectiveness of polyol recovery. An agent-based model was designed for product circularity assessment and Lifecycle Cost Analysis. The model was applied and evaluated on a polyurethane-based PIR building thermal insulation product. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to identify and assess the sources of uncertainty within the model.

Findings: The results identified that the cost of glycolysis agents and the catalyst contributed to 62% of the cost of the polyol recovery process compared to PIR waste. This study highlights the impact of supplementary materials on polyol recovery. Results also highlight how excessive methylene diphenyl diisocyanate significantly influences the cost of recycling PIR building thermal insulation.

Practical implications: CE of the least recycled materials, such as PIR, is an effective alternative to provide a sustainable economic growth and to protect against natural capital depletion.

Originality/value: This study provides insights into the economic feasibility and material impacts of integrating CE in PIR insulation recycling.