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From Volcanic Popcorn to the Material of the Future: A Critical Review of Expanded Perlite Applications and Environmental Impacts

Author

Listed:
  • Justyna Dzięcioł

    (Institute of Civil Engineering, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, 166 Nowoursynowska Street, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Olga Szlachetka

    (Institute of Civil Engineering, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, 166 Nowoursynowska Street, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Jorge Manuel Rodrigues Tavares

    (Department of Technologies and Applied Sciences, School of Agriculture, Polytechnic University of Beja, Apartado 6155, 7800-295 Beja, Portugal
    Fiber Materials and Environmental Technologies (FibEnTech-UBI), University of Beira Interior, Marques de D’avila e Bolama Street, 6201-001 Covilha, Portugal
    CREATE (Center for Sci-Tech Research in EArth sysTem and Energy)—Polo IPBeja, Campus of Polytechnic University of Beja, Apartado 6155, 7800-295 Beja, Portugal)

Abstract

The comprehensive review delves into the diverse applications of expanded perlite, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions in the face of changing market demands. The analysis of the environmental impact of traditional materials reveals critical issues, including increased energy consumption, resource depletion, and increasing waste generation. The search for safe materials with reduced environmental impact and renewable properties is proving critical to supporting a sustainable future. The analysis not only points out the economic benefits and widespread use of materials containing expanded perlite in various industries but also presents current trends in the use of this material, supporting options for environmentally friendly solutions. This study also examines the idea of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), the application of which for expanded perlite provides valuable insight into the production, transportation, and potential recycling of this material. Furthermore, the paper identifies the most promising solutions and identifies areas where further research is needed, providing insight into the current state of affairs and future challenges associated with the use of this material.

Suggested Citation

  • Justyna Dzięcioł & Olga Szlachetka & Jorge Manuel Rodrigues Tavares, 2025. "From Volcanic Popcorn to the Material of the Future: A Critical Review of Expanded Perlite Applications and Environmental Impacts," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-21, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:4:p:1454-:d:1588148
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