Utilizing Fuel and Energy Sector Waste as Thermal Insulation Materials for Technical Buildings

The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has prompted intensive research into the potential reuse of waste from the fuel and energy sector as effective thermal insulation materials. This study examines the feasibility of utilizing ash–slag mixtures, fly ash, and aluminosilicates as insulation materials for technical buildings. These materials were selected due to their availability and potential to improve energy efficiency in construction. Practical tests were carried out to determine the thermal conductivity coefficients of various samples, which were produced using different cement mixtures as binders to ensure adequate structural strength. The results demonstrated that the use of industrial waste-derived materials not only provides satisfactory thermal insulation properties but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the challenges associated with the disposal of industrial by-products. The study highlights the crucial role of cement as a binder, enhancing the mechanical strength and durability of the insulation samples. The integration of ash–slag mixtures, fly ash, and aluminosilicates into the construction sector may foster the adoption of more environmentally friendly building practices, thereby supporting a circular economy and mitigating the environmental impact of construction activities. The study showed that the lowest thermal conductivity coefficient (0.24 W/m·K) was achieved for mixtures containing fly ash and cement, while the highest value (0.30 W/m·K) was recorded in samples incorporating aluminosilicates. The obtained results confirm the effectiveness of fly ash as a cost-efficient additive that improves the thermal insulation properties of the material.