From Agricultural wastes to green building blocks material: An overview

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

1 Cellulose and Paper Department, National Research Center,Giza, Egypt

2 Cellulose and Paper Department, National Research Center, Egypt

3 Cellulose and Paper Department. Chemical Industral Research Division, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St. (former El Tahrir st.), Dokki, Giza,Egypt, P.O. 12622

Abstract

The construction industry faces mounting pressure to adopt sustainable alternatives to conventional, resource-intensive building materials, contributing significantly to global carbon emissions and environmental degradation. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformative potential of lignocellulosic agricultural waste in developing eco-friendly green building materials, including green concrete, bricks, insulation, geopolymers, and nanocellulose-reinforced composites. By critically evaluating recent advancements (2023–2025), we highlight how these waste-derived materials enhance mechanical properties, thermal insulation, and durability while reducing energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. Key innovations include the integration of rice husk ash, sugarcane bagasse, and wheat straw in cementitious composites, developing of lightweight lignocellulosic waste geopolymers, and of applying nanocellulose for high-performance reinforcement. These lignocellulosic waste-based building materials enhance sustainability, reduce costs, and optimize resource utilization. Despite challenges in scalability and long-term durability, this review underscores the viability of agricultural waste as a cornerstone for circular economy practices in construction. Future research should focus on standardization, industrial adoption, and lifecycle assessments to accelerate the transition toward carbon-neutral building practices.

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Volume 68, Issue 13 - Serial Number 13
(In Loving Memory of Late Professor Doctor”Zeinab M. Nofal” In progress
December 2025
Pages 977-993
  • Receive Date: 19 April 2025
  • Revise Date: 20 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 11 June 2025