Development of sustainable prefabricated housing system by small-scale experimental model

Utilisation of unused industrial wastes and the need for rapid volumetric construction led to the evolution of sustainable prefabricated housing elements, particularly for urban slums. An agro-industrial by-product as raw material and waste expanded polystyrene beads as the insulation material are chosen to develop a lightweight prefabricated construction element. This bio-ash is used as a partial replacement, 20 and 10%, for fine aggregates to prepare concrete and a lightweight mix, respectively. A small-scale model of one-third scale is conceptualised according to standards. This model includes precast columns and beams as framed structure and prefab panels as walling and roofing elements. These elements are developed according to the desired mix proportions of the identified raw materials. The respective laboratory specimens are evaluated for physico-mechanical, durability and thermal properties. The developed walling end product is found to be 27% lighter, 8% stronger, 24% less water absorbent and 62% less conductive when compared with the properties of commercially available fly-ash brick. A solar photovoltaic panel embedded into the pitch roof of the model can provide 71% of its generated energy to necessary electrical appliances. The material properties are found to be satisfactory for its on-site application. Also, the model’s erection is 20% faster than the conventional method.