This laboratory study produced geopolymer blocks from palm-oil ash and clinker, incorporating shredded surgical masks and varying alumina content. A formulation with 2% mask material and 2.5% alumina reached 7.11 MPa compressive strength after 28 days of heat curing and showed lower thermal conductivity than conventional concrete blocks and fired-clay bricks in the reported tests. Durability, fire safety and leaching still require validation.
Key findings
- The 2% mask and 2.5% alumina formulation achieved 7.11 MPa compressive strength after 28 days of heat curing. Bulk density ranged from 1,123 to 1,521 kg/m3. Mask-containing mortars showed lower thermal conductivity than conventional fired-clay bricks and concrete blocks in the study tests, indicating a composition-curing trade-off between strength and insulation.
Why this matters globally
Post-pandemic mask waste and palm-industry residues are substantial environmental burdens. Converting them into building products could reduce landfill and virgin-material demand, but net benefit depends on curing energy, transport, service life and end-of-life management.
Thai researcher contribution
Researchers from Princess of Naradhiwas University and Prince of Songkla University valorised palm and rubber resources important to southern Thailand, advancing a locally relevant circular-construction concept.
Limitations to consider
Evidence is limited to laboratory specimens and selected formulations. Water absorption, shrinkage, wet-dry durability, fire behaviour, polymer fumes, leaching, microplastic release and service life were not fully established. Heat curing may be energy intensive, and 7.11 MPa must be assessed against requirements for the intended application.