Re-think Brick: New Way of Making Brick Through Circular Economy Approaches

Driven by the EU's goals for sustainability, the Circularity of Material Resources research investigates innovative ways to reduce environmental impact in the brick sector. This collaborative effort among universities—led by Roma Tre University and Politecnico di Torino—and Small (Sfridoo S.r.l.) and Medium (Ripa Bianca Group) Enterprises (SME) explores three key areas: matter, energy, and product innovation. The research combines analytical and experimental approaches to seek new circular processes and product solutions. More specifically, an initial stage of previous international research studies and production models of the partner SME was followed by a laboratory experimentation stage. The latter stage is divided into three clusters: 1) evaluation of local renewable resources for energy supply; 2) implementation of the brick mixture through by-products and waste; 3) development of lightweight foamed bricks using novel techniques. The article deals with the research experience by illustrating the production system, the results of the Life Cycle Assessment study on the SME, and then the ongoing activities related to the three experiential clusters.