Author(s)

YULEISY FRANCHESCA PICHARDO AYBAR, CARLOS MICHAEL RIVERA DE LOS SANTOS, ROMEL ANTONIO ZORRILLA RAMIREZ, HANSEL LOPEZ MOTA, RUBEN DARIO RAMOS CIPRIAN, JULIAN C. PENA-BERMUDEZ

Abstract

The construction industry in the Dominican Republic faces the challenge of reducing its dependence on conventional materials with a high environmental footprint, especially concrete. At the same time, the country generates large volumes of sugarcane bagasse as an agro–industrial residue whose use still offers significant opportunities for higher value-added applications. In this context, the research proposes the production of eco-bricks through the incorporation of sugarcane bagasse as a partial substitute for conventional aggregates, within a circular economy approach oriented towards environmental sustainability, technical feasibility and economic profitability. The study was developed as a feasibility research project in the city of San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, considering raw material availability, market conditions and applicable regulatory requirements. The proposal suggests a 10% partial replacement of aggregates with bagasse fibre while maintaining parameters compatible with non-structural uses. In addition, the model incorporates operational continuity strategies, such as seasonal bagasse storage and the reincorporation of rejected units into the production process, thereby strengthening system efficiency. The results show that the proposed alternative offers relevant technical, environmental, and economic benefits. From an environmental perspective, an estimated 7.21% reduction in CO₂ emissions is achieved compared to a conventional mixture. Economically, the project is expected to reach a benefit–cost ratio of 1.3, an internal rate of return above 81%, and an approximate payback period of 1 year. From a technical standpoint, the material presents lower density, lower unit weight and favourable performance for non-structural applications. The use of sugarcane bagasse in eco-bricks constitutes a viable alternative to promote sustainable innovation, generate green jobs, and strengthen the transition toward lower impact construction models in the Dominican Republic.

Keywords

sugarcane bagasse, eco-bricks, sustainable construction, circular economy, waste valorization