Tschuden, Emilia

Diploma Thesis:
2035

Topic:
Analysing the potential of building envelopes as a source of raw materials

Editor:
Emilia Tschuden

University Professor Responsible:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Katharina Kleinschrot
Professorship Representative: Dr.-Ing. Jan Kortmann

Supervisor:
University Supervisor: Dipl.-Ing. Johanna Gildemeister

Editing Period:
07.04.2025 until 11.08.2025

Abstract:
This paper examines the potential of building envelopes as a source of raw materials in the context of urban mining in order to create the conditions for circular business models in the construction industry. The starting point is the realization that facades contain large quantities of valuable secondary materials, the use of which has been limited to date by a lack of data, poor separability, and insufficient reuse. Based on the analysis of common facade materials, an evaluation catalog with six criteria was developed. These criteria are dismantlability, separability, recyclability, pollutant purity, data availability, and use of secondary raw materials. The evaluation catalog was then applied to four representative facade types. The results show that modular, mechanically connected systems such as curtain-type rear-ventilated and mullion-transom facades have significantly higher reuse and recycling potential than monolithic or bonded constructions such as composite thermal insulation systems or solid masonry facades. In addition, requirements for a sustainable, digitally integrated material register are formulated and approaches for circular business models are identified. The work makes it clear that it is not the type of material alone, but above all the structural design, separability, and reliable material documentation that are decisive for recyclability.