Jun 6 2003
Since their introduction to the UK in the 1980’s, the production of composite sandwich panels has grown to around 80000 tonnes per annum. As they have a life span of around 15-20 years, these materials are now entering the waste system.
The Steel Construction Institute is undertaking a project to investigate recycling of these materials. Significant barriers are expected as the insulation from early products was blown with CFCs thus leading to environmental considerations analogous to the disposal of refrigerators.
The project will apply an holistic approach to understanding and solving the sustainability issues associated with this product group. To do this, all parts of the supply chain will be consulted. Project partners who have already agreed to take part include Corus Colors, the Metal Cladding and Roofing and Manufacturers Association (MCRMA), Corus Panels and Profiles, Engineered Panels in Construction (EPIC), J Mould demolition contractors and SimsMetal UK.
The SCI is keen to hear from anyone who can contribute to this project.
Source: SCI