Sustainable thermal and acoustic insulating panels from recycled cardboard

The objective of this study was to determine both the physical and mechanical properties of experimental panels made from recycled corrugated cardboard. Two types of composite samples, derived from two different raw materials — namely, unprinted and printed cardboard — were manufactured. The physical characteristics of the specimens, including density, water absorption, dimensional stability, thermal conductivity, and sound absorption, were tested. Additionally, the mechanical properties, such as the modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, and internal bond strength, were evaluated. Based on the findings of this research, the samples made from unprinted cardboard exhibited higher density, lower thickness swelling, and slightly better thermal insulation properties than those made from printed raw material. In contrast, the samples containing printed material demonstrated superior mechanical properties, suggesting they may be more suitable to be used where structural properties are desired. Overall, the properties of both types of samples indicate that such panels have an important potential to be used as sustainable products, serving as a green alternative material for indoor applications.