Recently, there has been growing interest in using composite materials to make construction materials that are stronger and more efficient. Interestingly, researchers are now finding ways to incorporate agricultural and industrial waste into these composite materials [1–3].
Composite materials are made by combining two or more different materials, such as a binder or reinforcement, to create a new material with unique properties [4, 5]. These composites exhibit greater strength, stiffness, toughness, and corrosion resistance than their individual components, making them suitable for a wide range of applications [6].
The use of waste materials such as sawdust, waste paper, high-density polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate-based plastics when making ceiling tiles is an appealing option. This approach allows the development of tiles with the desired specific mechanical and physical properties [7, 8].
Furthermore, researchers have investigated the use of coal ash, a waste product from coal-fired power plants, as a filler material in high-density polyethylene composites. The addition of coal ash actually improved the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of the composite, suggesting that this approach could be useful in construction [9, 10].
Another interesting area of research involves the incorporation of nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials (NEPCMs) to reduce energy consumption and enhance indoor comfort, especially in places with fluctuating temperatures. By adding nanoparticles (NEPCMs), the energy storage capacity and thermal conductivity can be further improved [11–13].
A ceiling tile was developed using agricultural waste, in which both the breadfruit seed coat and low-density polyethylene were converted into a particulate form, heated and molded in a mold. This process resulted in a better product with optimal values achieved at 19.722% breadfruit filler, a 10-minute press time, a press temperature of 197.31°C, and a press pressure of 9.04 MPa [14]. Similarly, the addition of white rice husk ash has been found to enhance the thermal stability and fire retardation properties of PVC composites, making it a valuable additive for improving fire safety [15].
The utilization of waste materials such as oil palm ash, bioparticles from Jatropha Curcas L. seeds, and coconut fiber also enhances the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and water resistance of composites [16, 17]. In the context of sustainable building design, incorporating recycled materials is crucial for conserving energy since such materials require less energy to produce than new raw materials [18, 19].
Ceiling tiles made from breadfruit seed coats, recycled low-density (LDPE) polyethylene, and agricultural waste products such as balanite shells and palm kernel shells have proven to be sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional materials. These waste materials exhibit excellent mechanical strength, water resistance, and fire retardancy when processed [20, 21]. By making wise use of waste materials through composite production, multiple advantages can be achieved. This includes ensuring sustainability in production, conserving valuable resources, managing waste effectively, and minimizing environmental impacts. Various studies have explored the use of waste materials and their impact on the properties of composites, highlighting the potential benefits of utilizing them in construction [22–25]. Moreover, the use of composite materials, especially those incorporating waste materials, offers numerous advantages in construction. These composites have enhanced properties, contribute to sustainability efforts, and provide innovative solutions for building materials [26–28].