Optimizing Marble Waste–Gypsum–Fiber Composites for Decorative Ceiling Panels: A Circular Construction Materials Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62671/circulizer.v1i1.245Keywords:
circular construction, marble waste, gypsum composites, sustainable building materials, waste valorizationAbstract
The increasing accumulation of marble-processing residues presents persistent environmental and operational challenges for stone-processing industries, particularly in regions where waste reutilization pathways remain underdeveloped. Within circular economy frameworks, construction materials offer promising opportunities for mineral waste valorization; however, empirical evidence regarding gypsum-based interior products reinforced with natural fibers remains limited. This study investigates the feasibility of converting marble powder waste into decorative ceiling panels through composite fabrication using gypsum as a mineral binder and black sugar palm fiber as bio-based reinforcement. An experimental approach was employed to produce four mixture formulations with varying proportions of marble waste, gypsum, water, and fiber, cast into standardized molds and cured under ambient conditions. Product performance was evaluated through surface smoothness, porosity visibility, breakage resistance, drying time, and dimensional stability. The results indicate that fiber-reinforced composites with higher gypsum content exhibited superior surface quality and structural cohesion compared with marble-dominant mixtures and non-reinforced controls. The optimal formulation—comprising 3000 g gypsum, 1500 g marble waste, and 0.5 g black sugar palm fiber—produced the most uniform and durable panels while reducing reliance on virgin gypsum. These findings demonstrate the technical potential of marble waste–based ceiling components as low-cost circular construction products and highlight opportunities for localized waste-to-resource manufacturing systems. Future research should incorporate quantitative mechanical testing and life-cycle assessment to evaluate scalability and environmental performance.
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