Sugar Cane Products as a Sustainable Construction Material – Case Study: Thermophysical Properties of a Corncob and Cane Bagasse Ash Panel

Abstract

Climate change is currently an issue that worries governments and society due to its threat. It is essential to implement efficient materials with low energy consumption in construction. This work shows the use of sugarcane products in the Mexican construction sector, aiming to mitigate the impact of energy wasting. As a case study, the analysis of thermophysical properties of a light mortar panel based on cane bagasse ash and corncob is presented. The experimental thermal properties of a hybrid panel system composed of cane bagasse ash, corncob, and lime were characterized. A sandwich-type construction component was made with two outer panels of reinforced mortar and between the panel of cane and corncob bagasse ash. Measurements of the surface temperatures of the system were conducted to determine the decrement factor and thermal lag, and the results were compared to other construction systems. The decremental factor and thermal lag were 0.19 (a reduction of 82%) and 6:03 h (an increment of 2400%) compared to the control panel of ferrocement only. These results are significant because the panel prepared limits the heat flow in peak hours when high temperatures reach their maximum values. This composite panel can provide an ecological alternative for energy-saving and thermal comfort and help fight climate change.