The work aims to analyze the effect of partial replacement of coarse aggregate by expanded polystyrene (EPS) in the production of hollow blocks, a type of concrete block. Substitution levels, by volume, of 0% (reference), 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% were tested. The following tests were performed: granulometric composition, specific mass, unit mass, surface analysis tests, absorption, mass determination, dimensional analysis and compressive strength. Regarding surface analysis, the hollow blocks showed satisfactory results. As for water absorption, the blocks performed similarly to the reference blocks with small variations in the results. As for its mass and dimensional variability, the insertion of EPS did not promote significant changes. All specimens with substituted EPS contents met the requirements regarding the blocks' compressive strength. From an environmental point of view, the replacement of EPS meets the requirements of the block standard, contributing to its removal from the environment.

The disposal of industrial waste and the production of plastic are contributors to global CO₂ emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable material alternatives. This study explores the development of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix and resinated paper waste (RPW) fiber composites aiming to reduce environmental impact. RPW was characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze its chemical composition and microstructure. The composite was produced in five different formulations and evaluated for tensile strength, elongation, and fractographic properties. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted using simulations to determine energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of polymer in RPW, which presents challenges for industrial recycling. Mechanical tests showed that RPW can be incorporated without significantly compromising tensile strength, while SEM revealed adequate fiber–polymer interaction up to 15 wt% RPW addition. LCA results demonstrated that RPW disposal accounts for 1.2% of CO₂ emissions per ton of paper produced, further emphasizing its environmental impact. Under a simplified scaling scenario, assuming an annual global PVC production of 62 million tons and the incorporation of 5 wt% RPW, the potential CO₂ reduction was estimated at approximately 37,200 tons per year. This result suggests that RPW incorporation may represent a sustainable and scalable alternative for both PVC production and RPW management. Graphical abstract The alternative text for this image may have been generated using AI. Release Paper Waste conversion into recovered cellulose fi bers for recyclable PVC-based products