REFAB
Demonstrating a circular value chain and new resource-efficient manufacturing technologies within the construction and demolition industry.
BACKGROUND
Joining forces with partners Saint-Gobain Ecophon, LINK Arkitektur, DECIBEL by Johanson Design, LogTrade Technologies, and Lund University the aim is to demonstrate a circular value chain and new resource-efficient manufacturing technologies within the construction and demolition industry. supported by Vinnova, the Swedish Innovation Agency.
CHALLENGE
A new complex way of looking at an existing material stream, i.e., recycled glassfiber, which must be mixed and processed in the most optimal and possible way so that fire, emissions and formability requirements are met.
SOLUTION
The focus is to utilise acoustic wall and ceiling absorbers made of glass wool, a complex waste stream from the construction and demolition industry.
RESULT
Utilising new, more effective manufacturing technologies and design strategies it will enable high-value products on the market.
EU RESEARCH ARTICLERevolutionising construction: Building a Circular Future—One Panel at a Time
What if construction materials could have multiple lifecycles—perhaps even an infinite one? We have started to turn this vision into reality through the Re:Fab Project, funded by Vinnova. As the project comes to a close, we are excited to share key insights that pave the way for a circular construction industry.
Key innovations from the Re:Fab project
Parametric design for acoustic panels
By leveraging advanced algorithms, we developed custom-tailored acoustic panels designed for classrooms, offices, and meeting rooms. These panels optimise sound reflection, absorption, and diffusion, ensuring superior acoustic performance.Circular thinking in action
Instead of being discarded, materials such as construction and demolition waste can now be repurposed into high-value products. This project showcases the potential of a circular value chain, reducing waste and extending material lifespans.Scalable and sustainable solutions
By combining collaborative innovation with refined manufacturing technologies, we have created solutions that are not only sustainable but also scalable across various industries, beyond just construction.
Read the full article High-value construction products for the circular economy, from EU Research (PDF).
Collaboration for a circular future
Together with our fantastic partners—Saint-Gobain Ecophon AB, LINK Arkitektur, Decibel by Johanson, Logtrade Technology, and Lund University—we have explored how glass wool from construction and demolition waste can be transformed into innovative, resource-efficient products. This goes beyond recycling—it is about reimagining material use, merging sustainability with performance and design.
Every renovation and construction project presents an opportunity to rethink how materials are used. We would love to explore this path even more. Contact us if you want to collaborate to push circularity further.
The Facts
The project is funded by Vinnova (the Swedish Innovation Agency).
Partners: Saint-Gobain Ecophon, LINK Arkitektur, DECIBEL by Johanson Design, LogTrade Technologies, Lund University and The Loop Factory.
Period: 11/2021 – 12/2024
