Abstract:
1. Introduction
The study has been carried out with the main focus of measuring the
adverse environmental impact of aluminium privacy fence panels and clay
brick throughout the lifecycle. 3.288m2 is the area that is considered as
a unit for measuring the environmental impact of aluminum privacy fence
panels and clay bricks. In order to 27.5kg(one) aluminum privacy fence
panel and 475kg (198) clay bricks are required to cover a 3.288m2 area.
2. Research Methodology
A life cycle assessment was conducted. The boundary was from the cradle
to the grave. This comparative assessment was done using Simapro faculty
version software, and the ReCiPe impact assessment model was used to
generate end-points and mid-point impact categories. The primary data
was collected through BOM, electricity bills, water bills and lab
reportobservations. Apart from that, the data was collected by reviewing
literature and through the Ecoinvent database, showing that the specific
aluminium billet is not produced in Sri Lanka. To get a clay brick database,
review articles, reports, and industrial reports.
3. Finding and Discussion
The study compares aluminum privacy fence panels and clay bricks as
construction materials, focusing on cost, durability, maintenance,
sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Aluminium privacy fence panels have a
higher midpoint impact category, affecting freshwater ecotoxicity at
7.6134535. The next highest categories are marine ecotoxicity; freshwater
eutrophication values 3.0018528 and 0.2037145, respectively, and human
health endpoints. Clay bricks have a higher impact category, affecting
human carcinogenic toxicity 9.5937814 and freshwater ecotoxicity marine
ecotoxity values 5.4206617 and 4.4613611, respectively.
4. Conclusion and Implications
Both panels have a long lifespan. According to the findings, the aluminium
privacy fence panel is the most sustainable. The research suggests that
construction managers should choose materials based on sustainability,
cost efficiency, and long-term performance
