Strachwitz, Romain

Diploma Thesis:
2111

Topic:
A house without copper – material flow analysis and substitution plan

Editor:
Romain Strachwitz

University Professor Responsible:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Katharina Kleinschrot

Supervisor:
University Supervisor: Dipl.-Ing. Oliwia Fila

Editing Period:
08.05.2026 until 11.09.2026

Abstract: 
This thesis examines the role of copper in the building sector and develops a method for assessing the circularity of substituting individual materials used in building services equipment. The focus is on identifying where copper can be usefully replaced and where its use provides a benefit that does not justify its avoidance. To this end, a global material flow analysis was carried out, applied to a real-world reference building, and the substitute materials for each trade were assessed using a criteria-based method based on recyclability, resource conservation and security of supply. The analysis shows that a completely copper-free building is neither achievable nor sensible, as copper remains non-substitutable by design in the fine-scale end circuits, where it underpins energy-efficient electrification. The aim is therefore not a copper-free building, but one with minimal copper use, which restricts the material to its essential core functions and keeps it within the circular economy.