Recycled Rubber Insulating Blocks for Green Roofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing green roofing systems face challenges due to the weight and structural demands of soil and vegetation, which can strain building foundations, and tire recycling presents a significant environmental waste management issue with limited reuse options, while current insulation methods do not effectively utilize recycled materials for sustainable construction.
Innovation Solution
The development of environmentally responsible insulating construction blocks made from shredded rubber tire pieces coated with silica fume and slag cement, which are mixed with water to form a monolithic structure providing high insulation and strength, suitable for green roofing and decking applications, and can be used to build entire structures in a single pour, incorporating a permeable fireproof layer for drainage and a waterproof membrane for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional soil and vegetation are used for green roofing, then green roofing functionality is achieved, but building foundation weight capacity is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the roofing material by using shredded rubber tires coated with cementitious materials instead of traditional soil and vegetation. This substitution dramatically reduces weight while maintaining the green roofing functionality through the engineered block structure that provides insulation and support.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite material by combining shredded rubber tire pieces with cementitious coatings (silica fume, slag cement, and/or Portland cement). This composite structure provides both the weight reduction needed to protect building foundations and the functional properties required for green roofing applications.
2Loss of energy
If shredded rubber tire pieces are used for insulation, then insulation performance is improved, but structural strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system where shredded rubber tire pieces provide insulation properties while the cementitious coating (silica fume, slag cement, and/or Portland cement) provides structural strength. The combination synergistically achieves both insulation performance and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical and chemical parameters of the rubber tire material by coating it with cementitious substances. This transformation converts the soft, weak rubber into a structurally sound composite that maintains the insulating properties of the rubber while gaining the strength and durability of cement-based materials.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If recycled materials are used for construction, then environmental sustainability is improved, but material performance consistency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the coating process to ensure consistent application of cementitious materials on shredded rubber tire pieces. This standardization of the coating thickness and composition transforms variable recycled rubber into a reliable construction material with consistent performance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite materials to mask the variability inherent in recycled rubber. The cementitious coating creates a uniform outer layer that provides consistent structural and surface properties, while the recycled rubber core provides insulation. This composite structure ensures reliable performance despite variations in the recycled material source.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
These blocks offer high insulation, structural integrity, and sustainability by utilizing recycled materials, reducing environmental impact, and allowing for the creation of green roofing and decking systems that meet severe weather standards while addressing weight and structural concerns, with a high recycled content and efficient water drainage.
Implementation Method 1
The environmentally responsible insulating construction blocks provide high insulation as well as strength
Data Source
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Figure 3A
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AI summary
Environmentally responsible insulating construction blocks and structures constructed primarily of recycled materials are disclosed. The environmentally friendly construction blocks and structures comprise shredded rubber tire pieces coated with silica fume, slag cement and cement, which are then mixed with water and formed in a mold. A layer of grout or a fireproof material may be disposed on one side of the environmentally responsible insulating construction block. The environmentally responsible insulating construction blocks provide high insulation as well as strength for applications such as green roofing, wall construction and green roofing decks. Environmentally friendly structures can be built by pouring the coated shredded rubber tire pieces into molds to form walls, and then to pour a layer of the coated shredded rubber tire pieces as a roof deck, thereby creating a self-supporting structure in a monolithic pour