EPiC Database 2024
EPiC Database 2024
Performance in
Construction
A database of embodied
environmental flow coefficients
Published 2024
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
[Link]
You are free to use, copy, distribute and transmit the work as you like for non-commercial purposes, as long as the
appropriate credit is given, and all existing credits are retained.
The authors disclaim any liability, in whole or in part, arising from information contained in this publication. They do
not take any responsibility for any action taken, decision-made, or result associated with the use of the coefficients
or the database.
Citation: Crawford, R.H., Stephan, A. and Prideaux, F. (2024) Environmental Performance in Construction (EPiC)
Database, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne.
DOI: [Link]/10.26188/5dc228ef98c5a
Website: [Link]
Foreword 6
Preface 8
Glossary 10
Related Resources 12
5. EPiC Database 47
References 272
Appendices 274
Material coefficients
Concrete and Plaster Products 68
Concrete block 68
Cement mortar 70
Portland cement 72
Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) 74
Concrete 20 MPa 76
Concrete 25 MPa 78
Concrete 32 MPa 80
Concrete 40 MPa 82
Concrete 50 MPa 84
Concrete 65 MPa 86
Concrete 80 MPa 88
Concrete 100 MPa 90
Geopolymer concrete 92
Fibre cement sheet 94
Fibre cement weatherboard 96
Gypsum plaster 98
Plasterboard 100
Concrete roof tile 102
Glass 104
Flat glass double glazing 104
Flat glass 106
Laminated glass 108
Toughened glass double glazing 110
Toughened glass 112
Insulation 114
Cellulose insulation 114
Aluminium foil insulation 116
Glasswool insulation 118
Polyester insulation 120
Rockwool insulation 122
Polystyrene (EPS/XPS) insulation 124
Polyurethane (PU) insulation 126
Metals 128
Aluminium bar 128
Aluminium composite panel 130
Aluminium extruded 132
Aluminium sheet 134
Copper pipe 136
Copper sheet 138
Copper wire 140
Cold rolled stainless steel 142
Stainless steel extruded 144
Stainless steel sheet 146
Stainless steel wire 148
Cold rolled steel 150
Hot rolled galvanised structural steel 152
Hot rolled structural steel 154
Steel bar 156
Steel hollow section extruded 158
Steel pipe 160
Steel sheet corrugated 162
Miscellaneous 164
Asphalt 164
Cellulose-cement block 166
Hempcrete block 168
Magnesium oxide board 170
Strawboard - 50 mm 172
Nylon carpet 174
Wool carpet 176
Silicone 178
Solar hot water system 180
Straw bale 182
Water 184
Wood glue (PVA) 186
Solvent-based paint 188
Water-based paint 190
Wallpaper 192
Natural rubber 194
Synthetic rubber 196
Plastics 198
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) film 198
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe 200
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film 202
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) pipe 204
Nylon 66 206
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) 208
Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) 210
Glass reinforced plastic (GRP) 212
Linoleum 214
Polycarbonate 216
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) 218
Polypropylene (PP) sheet 220
Polyurethane (PU) flexible foam 222
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film 224
Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) 226
6
The EPiC Database will be an invaluable resource for anyone
involved in the planning, design, construction, operation or
management of our buildings and cities. It provides decision-
makers with critical information needed to understand, predict
and improve the environmental performance of building and
engineering projects.
Tanya Ha
Science journalist, environmental advocate and author
7
Preface
The construction of buildings and built infrastructure assets is a major contributor to global
resource demands, waste production, and greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions. Therefore,
the construction industry has an important role to play in reducing the current and future
effects of human activities on the natural environment. In order to facilitate this, information on
how various design and construction-related decisions affect the environment, are needed. If
key decision makers, such as asset owners, architects, engineers and contractors have access
to detailed information about the resource demands and environmental effects associated
with materials, they are in a better position to make decisions around material selection in
order to improve the overall environmental performance of a project. While some data already
exists for informing these critical decisions, it is often based on disparate data sources, limited
in coverage to only a fraction of the environmental flows associated with the production of any
given material, and difficult or costly to access.
The aim of the EPiC Database is to provide open-access data on the environmental flows
associated with construction materials, based on a consistent methodological approach and
ensuring maximum coverage of environmental flows, helping to reduce the environmental
effects of construction. The database contains embodied energy, embodied water and
embodied greenhouse gas emissions coefficients for a broad range of common construction
materials. The approach used to compile the EPiC coefficients is based on over 65 years of
research, stemming from the work of researchers like Walter Isard and Wassily Leontief. More
recently, the work of Graham Treloar forms the most critical basis for the EPiC coefficients.
Graham’s work on hybrid methods for compiling life cycle inventories and quantifying
embodied energy, as well as its subsequent development in recent years provides the EPiC
Database with consistency and broad coverage of material-related environmental flows.
8
A key strength of the EPiC Database is its high level of transparency. The approach used to
compile the coefficients is outlined in detail within this book and has been peer-reviewed
in multiple scientific papers. The data used is made available as open-access (see Related
Resources) and individual material fact sheets provide further insight into the environmental
flows associated with each material. This EPiC Database is an invaluable resource for anyone
involved in the construction industry, including material specifiers, planners, architects,
engineers, asset owners, developers and contractors. The EPiC coefficients can be used to
compare materials or quantify the environmental flows associated with entire construction
projects. They can also be integrated into broader life cycle assessment studies to ensure that
the environmental effects of construction projects are optimised across their entire life cycle.
The EPiC Database would not have happened were it not for the support and contribution
of a number of people and organisations. The database and associated resource hub are
the result of a four-year Australian Research Council funded Discovery Project – ‘Improving
the Environmental Performance of Australian Construction Projects’ (DP150100962) and
we acknowledge the Australian Research Council for their support. In addition to this, The
University of Melbourne has provided on-going support and facilities to the project, which is
also greatly appreciated. We also acknowledge Thomas Wiedmann and Man Yu as members
of the Discovery Project team for their contribution to the broader project and Paul-Antoine
Bontinck for his many years of dedication to the project and in particular his assistance in
compiling the raw data and the environmental flow coefficients contained within the EPiC
Database.
9
Glossary
Direct environmental flows The natural resource inputs and waste, greenhouse gas
emissions and pollutant outputs associated with a main
production process, at the point of the activity
Embodied energy The primary energy required by all of the activities associated
with a production process and the share of energy used in
making equipment and other supporting functions (i.e. direct
and indirect)
Embodied greenhouse gas The greenhouse gas emissions (in carbon dioxide equivalent)
emissions released during all of the activities associated with a
production process and the share of emissions associated
with making equipment and other supporting functions (i.e.
direct and indirect)
Embodied water The water required by all of the activities associated with a
production process and the share of water used in making
equipment and other supporting functions (i.e. direct and
indirect)
Environmental flows The natural resource inputs and waste, greenhouse gas
emissions and pollutant outputs associated with the
production and provision of goods and services
Hybrid analysis A life cycle inventory analysis technique for quantifying inputs
and outputs of a product, process or activity that combines
the use of process data and environmentally-extended input-
output data
Indirect environmental flows The natural resource inputs and waste, greenhouse gas
emissions and pollutant outputs associated with the
processes and activities upstream of, and supporting, a main
production process
10
Life cycle The stages through which something (e.g. a product or a
building) passes during its life (usually from raw material
acquisition to final disposal)
Life cycle assessment A tool for measuring the environmental effects associated
with a product, process or activity over its life cycle from raw
material acquisition through to production, use and disposal
Life cycle impact assessment The third phase of a life cycle assessment, which involves the
evaluation of the magnitude and significance of potential
environmental effects of a product, process or activity across
its life cycle, based on the findings from a life cycle inventory
analysis
Life cycle inventory analysis The second phase of a life cycle assessment, which involves
quantifying the inputs to, and outputs from, a product across
its life cycle
Primary energy The energy contained within a primary energy source (e.g.
coal, oil or natural gas) that has not been processed or
converted
Process analysis A life cycle inventory analysis technique for quantifying inputs
and outputs of a product, process, or activity, by breaking it
down into its constituent parts and tracing the inputs and
outputs through the supply chain
11
Related Resources
The code for the object-oriented programming used to conduct structural path analysis is also
made freely available on GitHub ([Link] with further information
located at: [Link] It is available as a Python package
(pyspa) from the central Python package index (PyPi).
12
Publications
The following publications supplement the EPiC Database and provide additional insight
into the methods and data used to compile the EPiC coefficients.
Crawford, R. H., Stephan, A. & Prideaux, F. (2022) The EPiC database: Hybrid embodied
environmental flow coefficients for construction materials. Resources, Conservation and
Recycling, 180, 106058. [Link]
Crawford, R.H., Stephan, A., & Prideaux, F. (2019) A comprehensive database of environmental
flow coefficients for construction materials: closing the loop in environmental design. Paper
presented at the Revisiting the Role of Architecture for ‘Surviving’ Development, Architectural
Science Association, Roorkee, India.
Stephan, A., Crawford, R.H., & Bontinck, P.-A. (2019) A model for streamlining and automating
path exchange hybrid life cycle assessment. The International Journal of Life Cycle
Assessment, 24(2), 237-252. [Link]
Crawford, R.H., Stephan, A., & Schmidt, M. (2018) Embodied Carbon in Buildings: An
Australian Perspective. In F. Pomponi, C. D. Wolf, & A. Moncaster (Eds.), Embodied Carbon in
Buildings. Cham: Springer. [Link]
Crawford, R.H., Bontinck, P.-A., Stephan, A., Wiedmann, T., & Yu, M. (2018) Hybrid life cycle
inventory methods – A review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 172, 1273-1288. [Link]
org/10.1016/[Link].2017.10.176
Crawford, R.H., Bontinck, P., & Stephan, A. (2018) Establishing a comprehensive database of
construction material environmental flow coefficients for Australia. Paper presented at the
Engaging Architectural Science: Meeting the Challenges of Higher Density, Architectural
Science Association, Melbourne, Australia.
Bontinck, P.-A., Crawford, R. H., & Stephan, A. (2017) Improving the uptake of hybrid life cycle
assessment in the construction industry. Procedia Engineering, 196, 822-829. [Link]
org/10.1016/[Link].2017.08.013
Crawford, R.H., Bontinck, P.-A., Stephan, A., & Wiedmann, T. (2017) Towards an automated
approach for compiling hybrid life cycle inventories. Procedia Engineering, 180, 157-166.
[Link]
13
1
THE ENVIRONMENTAL
EFFECTS OF CONSTRUCTION
The construction of built assets, such as buildings, roads, bridges and
other infrastructure demands a large volume of natural resources
and results in significant effects on the natural environment. The
production of construction materials is one of the largest contributors.
The Environmental Effects of Construction
The construction industry is responsible for the construction of buildings, roads, bridges,
railways, energy networks and other infrastructure assets. These assets are typically long-lived
and require a significant quantity of natural resources in their construction and throughout
their life, from pre-construction activities through to their final disposal. They also generate
considerable quantities of waste, greenhouse gases and pollutants.
A0 A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 C1 C2 C3 C4 D
Deconstruction demolition
Refurbishment
Construction-installation
Replacement
Maintenance
Raw material supply
Preliminary
Repair
Reuse,
Waste processing
studies,
Use
Recovery,
Manufacturing
consultations Recycling
Transport
Transport
and design
Transport
B6 Operational energy use potential
Disposal
B7 Operational water use
Demand for natural resources and production of waste, greenhouse gases and pollutants occur
across the building life cycle (based on EN 15978:2011 and EN 15643-5:2017)
Each stage of the life cycle requires direct and indirect resource inputs and results in direct and
indirect outputs to the environment. Energy, water and raw materials are essential resources
for almost all stages of the built asset life cycle. Likewise, each life cycle stage results in the
production of waste, greenhouse gases and pollutants. These inputs and outputs can also be
referred to as environmental flows.
16
Direct environmental flows
Direct flows are those associated with a main process, such as heating a building, operating
machinery or melting iron ore. These flows represent direct inputs of resources or outputs of
waste, emissions and pollutants for specific life cycle stages.
The energy required for manufacturing steel is an indirect energy flow associated with the
construction sector
17
What are embodied environmental flows?
The use of natural resources, such as energy, water and raw materials, the generation of waste,
and the release of emissions and pollutants are integral to the production of most goods
and provision of most services. These environmental flows are considered to be ‘locked in’
once the goods are produced. The term embodied is commonly used to reflect that these
flows have already occurred. The embodied environmental flows of a construction project
include all of the direct and indirect environmental flows associated with the production of
construction materials, construction activities and the provision of services that support the
entire construction process.
Construction results in a broad range of environmental effects that are geographically and
temporally dispersed. The type and extent of these effects depend on the scale and type of direct
and indirect environmental flows associated with a construction project. Each environmental
flow can be converted to an effect on the natural environment, using tools such as life cycle
assessment (ISO 14040:2006). This conversion, also known as life cycle impact assessment
(LCIA), is necessary as different flows will have different environmental consequences. For
example, energy from fossil fuels contributes much more to global warming than renewable
energy sources do.
Embodied energy
The term embodied energy refers to the total energy required to produce a particular
good or provide a particular service. It covers all direct and indirect energy flows for
that good or service. While environmental flows cover a broad range of resource
inputs and outputs to the environment, embodied energy only considers energy
flows. Other commonly considered environmental flows include embodied water
and embodied greenhouse gas emissions.
18
The construction and use of buildings and other built assets represents a considerable
proportion of global environmental effects caused by human activity. Buildings alone account
for 36% of global energy use, 39% of global energy-related greenhouse gas emissions and
40% of global material use (International Energy Agency and the United Nations Environment
Programme, 2018; Roodman, 1995). Understanding the environmental flows and effects
associated with the construction industry is therefore of critical importance.
19
2
QUANTIFYING
ENVIRONMENTAL FLOWS
Environmental flows associated with construction
can be quantified using data from life cycle inventory
databases, environmental product declarations, and using
environmental flow coefficients.
Quantifying Environmental Flows
In order to determine the environmental effects caused by the construction industry and
prioritise efforts to improve its environmental performance, it is necessary to understand the
environmental flows associated with construction projects.
Environmental flows are typically quantified using an approach known as process analysis.
This begins with drawing a diagram outlining all of the individual processes that form part of
the project being assessed. This could be anything from a simple structure up to an entire city.
This process flow diagram helps identify the processes for which data will need to be collected.
Gravel
mining
Gypsum Concrete
mining production
Cement
production
Raw blend Clinker
processing production
Iron ore
mining Steel scrap
Coke Oxygen
Coal mining production production
Building
construction
Caustic soda Al. fluoride
production production
Bauxite Bauxite
mining processing
22
The data to be collected depends on the focus of the analysis. This can range from a single
environmental flow for one life cycle stage (e.g. the energy used during the construction
process) to a full life cycle assessment that considers a broad range of flows across the
entire project life cycle, from raw material extraction to eventual demolition and disposal of
materials.
Data is collected for each process identified in the process flow diagram. This can include
a combination of process, product and location-specific data. Types of data that might be
collected include quantities of resource inputs, such as units of raw materials, energy or
water; raw material characteristics and their source; hours of operation for machinery and
equipment; machinery and equipment production efficiencies; production capacity and
output; and transport modes and distances.
Data can be collected from a range of sources, including physical observation, utility bills,
orders, invoices, and other company records. Once all available data has been collected, it is
then collated to form a life cycle inventory for the product or project, specifying all inputs and/
or outputs for the specific processes considered.
As an example, a life cycle inventory for steel may include: quantities of raw materials (e.g. iron
ore, coke and limestone); as well as flows of energy, water, greenhouse gas emissions, waste
and various pollutants associated with transporting raw materials and factory production
processes (such as operating the blast furnace, steel casting, rolling and finishing).
23
Life cycle inventory databases
Databases containing pre-compiled life cycle inventories can significantly reduce the time
involved in collecting data and analysing the environmental performance of a construction
project. These databases contain life cycle inventories for a wide range of products, across
multiple sectors (e.g. agriculture, energy, manufacturing) and across the different life cycle
stages of a product. They will often contain data collected from process analyses conducted
by industry, researchers and environmental consultants. These databases are commonly
accessed from within environmental assessment tools which make identifying relevant
processes much easier.
24
Limitations of process analysis
Collection of process data can have a significant influence on the time and costs involved in
identifying environmental flows and compiling a life cycle inventory for a particular product,
especially for more complex products like buildings. Conducting a process analysis can be
incredibly time intensive and sufficient resources are rarely available for undertaking these for
an entire construction project. Life cycle inventory databases, EPDs and environmental flow
coefficients can considerably streamline the process.
When undertaking a process analysis, it is unrealistic to include every single process. Resource
constraints and supply chain complexity generally limit the ability for this to be achieved.
Hence, a boundary is usually drawn around the processes to be included, usually based
on those which are seen to be important or for which data is readily available. Many other
processes are excluded, considered to be insignificant or just not able to be identified.
The processes excluded from a process analysis have been shown to represent around 50% of
total environmental flows for moderately complex products (Norris, 2001) and up to 87% for
more complex products (Born, 1996; Crawford, 2005, 2008; Hendrickson et al., 1998; Lenzen
& Dey, 2000). For very energy or resource-intensive manufacturing processes, such as metals
and glass production, this issue is reduced, due to the much higher significance of the main
production process (where process data is typically readily available).
Environmental flows excluded within a process-based life cycle inventory may include those
associated with: the production of minor materials; basic material conversion into fabricated
or more complex products; higher order processes in the supply chain; providing services,
such as finance, insurance and telecommunications to all supply chain organisations; and
those associated with the production of capital machinery and equipment.
25
Filling data gaps in process-based life cycle inventories
Data gaps in process-based life cycle inventories can be significant. Minimising these gaps by
collecting additional process data is preferred due to its relevance for particular processes.
While this is often not possible due to the sheer complexity of the supply chain, alternative
data sources can be used. One such source, known as environmentally-extended input-output
(EEIO) data is useful as it uses a whole-of-economy approach. This means that it includes all
activity that occurs within a national or global economy and can thus be used to fill any gaps
that exist in a process-based life cycle inventory.
Hybrid analysis
Want more information about hybrid analysis?
See Hybrid life cycle inventory methods – A review (Crawford et al., 2018b)
26
3
A0 A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 C1 C2 C3 C4 D
Deconstruction demolition
Refurbishment
Construction-installation
Replacement
Maintenance
Raw material supply
Preliminary
Repair
Reuse,
Waste processing
studies,
Use
Recovery,
Manufacturing
consultations Recycling
Transport
Transport
and design
Transport
B6 Operational energy use potential
Disposal
B7 Operational water use
The environmental flows covered within the EPiC Database include energy (megajoules),
water (litres) and greenhouse gas emissions (kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent).
As the coefficients include all direct and indirect flows, they represent the total embodied
environmental flows associated with the production of the materials and products covered.
The coefficients can therefore also be referred to as embodied energy, embodied water and
embodied greenhouse gas emissions coefficients.
28
Key Characteristics
In the development of the EPiC Database a number of key characteristics were prioritised –
completeness, consistency and transparency.
Completeness
To ensure that all processes are accounted for, from cradle to gate, the EPiC coefficients
have been produced using a hybrid analysis, filling gaps in available process data with
environmentally-extended input-output data. Life cycle inventories based on process
analysis suffer from varying degrees of incompleteness. This variation in coverage of the
processes included makes comparability between materials and products problematic. The
completeness of the system boundary of EPiC coefficients ensures a full coverage of the
supply chain and enables meaningful comparisons to be made.
Consistency
The EPiC coefficients have been developed using a common methodology, as well as
consistent data source (where practicable), approach to data integration, and data cut-off
rules. The use of coefficients from different sources, or based on data from different sources,
limits the ability to reliably compare the environmental performance of different materials or
products. It can also result in misleading findings at a whole project level. The approach used
to produce the EPiC coefficients maximises comparability between materials or products and
improves the reliability of assessments.
Transparency
To maximise transparency within the EPiC Database, the methods and data used to produce
the coefficients have been made freely available through open-access platforms (see Related
Resources). In contrast, environmental flow coefficients are often treated as a black box, with
little information about how they were compiled or the source of the data used. This can
reduce the level of confidence in their use. The open access to all metadata behind the EPiC
Database allows in-depth sensitivity analyses to be performed and the relevance of individual
coefficients to be assessed.
29
Data
The EPiC Database relies on two main sources of data, namely process and environmentally-
extended input-output data. These data types are described below along with details about
how they were processed.
Process data
The EPiC Database uses the Australian Life Cycle Inventory Database Initiative (AusLCI), which
is collected as a matrix of processes from the LCA software Simapro. AusLCI is a process-
based life cycle inventory containing process data collected from Australian sources, and
supplemented with ecoinvent data (Frischknecht et al., 2005) when no local data is available
(Grant, 2016). The European ecoinvent data is made Australia-specific by modifying energy
generation and transmission processes. Additional processes were also created to represent
processed materials, such as rolled steel or extruded aluminium where these didn’t already
exist. In total, this process-based life cycle inventory contains 4 693 individual processes.
30
Data processing
Prior to the compilation of the EPiC coefficients, the process and environmentally-extended
input-output data need to be further processed. The final data format is represented by a
square matrix of process/input-output data and a list of processes/economic sectors and their
environmental flow requirements (direct and total) along with other relevant metadata.
Energy, water and greenhouse gas emissions accounts were available at lower sectoral
resolution than the input-output data and had to be manually disaggregated to match the
resolution of the input-output data. The allocation and disaggregation of environmental
accounts was based on the expenditure for each economic sector in the input-output tables.
This enabled the calculation of direct and total environmental flow requirements for each
environmental flow, and each economic sector.
Process data was collected in a standardised format requiring minimal manipulation. The
entire AusLCI database (Grant, 2016) was collected as a square matrix (PRé Sustainability,
2018). The direct and total environmental flow requirements for each process were calculated
using raw data from AusLCI and the square matrix.
31
Hybrid approach
The EPiC coefficients have been produced by combining the process and environmentally-
extended input-output data described above using a hybrid approach known as Path Exchange
hybrid analysis (Lenzen & Crawford, 2009). This approach uses an input-output model of the
national economy, into which available process data is integrated, or exchanged. This ensures
that the entire supply chain of a material is covered, across the economy, while using as much
detailed and relevant process data as possible.
The following diagram outlines the steps involved in producing the EPiC coefficients, which
are further described below.
P IO
2 Select process
database
Select input-output
database
Convert remaining
6 $ nodes to physical
unit of material
32
Step 1. Define construction material or product
The first step involves defining a particular construction material or product (e.g. hot rolled
steel), and its attributes (e.g. density, basic price, functional unit). This definition is critical as it
dictates the selection of a relevant process and economic sector in Step 3.
33
Step 5-7. Hybridisation and calculation of an EPiC coefficient
The fifth, sixth and seventh steps consist of combining the process and input-output data to
produce the hybrid environmental flow coefficient. Based on the two structural path analyses,
for the input-output nodes where an equivalent process node is available, the associated
environmental flow is replaced with the process-based environmental flow. This avoids
double counting, ensures system boundary completeness and maximises specificity. During
this process, all input-output nodes that were replaced by process nodes are excluded and the
remaining input-output data is deemed to represent all of the environmental flows associated
with the nodes not covered by the process data.
A word on automation
It is important to highlight the novelty in the automation of the steps described above. These
steps are typically performed manually, but in this instance were significantly automated
through the development and use of object-oriented Python programming. This enabled the
consistent, transparent and streamlined creation of the EPiC coefficients. Apart from creating
a dedicated graphical user interface to compile the coefficients (Stephan, 2018), multiple
aspects were automated, including: the processing of process and input-output data, the
structural path analysis of process and input-output data, the exchange of process and input-
output nodes, the calculation of EPiC coefficients, and exporting all data associated with the
compilation of a coefficient.
Hybrid approach
Want more information about the hybrid approach used?
See A model for streamlining and automating path exchange hybrid life cycle assessment
(Stephan et al., 2019) and Hybrid life cycle inventory methods – A review (Crawford et al.,
2018b)
34
Example compilation of an EPiC coefficient
This section provides an example of the process involved in compiling an EPiC coefficient.
This example calculates the embodied greenhouse gas emissions of 10 mm plasterboard. The
following diagram summarises the results obtained from each step.
1 Name: Plasterboard
Category: Minerals
Country of production: Australia
Functional unit: m2
Type: Plaster Cost: A$7.67/m2 (2014)
5
process nodes remaining nodes
$
Convert remaining nodes to
6
physical unit of material
3.1 kgCO2e/m2
7
the hybrid coefficient
COEFF
2.7 + 3.1 = 5.8 kgCO2e/m2
Example of step by step process for calculating the EPiC embodied greenhouse
gas emissions coefficient for 10mm plasterboard
35
4
• To select materials with the lowest environmental effects for one or across a range of
environmental flows, informing design aimed at maximising project environmental
performance;
38
Quantifying environmental flows
This section provides a step-by-step description of the use of the EPiC coefficients to quantify
the environmental flows of a construction project.
• Energy
Select environmental
1 flow/s to be quantified
• Water
• Greenhouse gas emissions
• Functional unit
2 Define and describe
the project
• List of main materials
• Quantity of main materials
Quantify total
• Main materials
6 environmental flows • Additional processes
for the project
Steps for using the EPiC coefficients to quantify embodied environmental flows
39
Step 1.
The environmental flow/s to be quantified are selected.
• Energy
• Water
Step 2.
The project being assessed is defined and described.
• Develop a list of the main materials contained within the project - This information
can usually be extracted from construction documentation, including drawings,
specifications and schedules. If a bill of quantities (BoQ) is available, this can
significantly streamline this process.
• Determine the quantity of each main material contained within the project, including
on-site wastage, if relevant.
Cork slab – 10 mm 10 m2
40
Step 3.
The embodied environmental flow/s for each of the main materials contained within the
project are quantified.
• Select relevant coefficient for each material from the EPiC Database.
Step 4.
The total embodied environmental flow/s associated with the main materials is quantified.
41
Step 5.
The embodied environmental flows associated with the assembly/construction and minor
materials of the project are quantified. The EPiC coefficients include the environmental flows
for all processes associated with the production of the individual materials and products (A1-
A3 as per EN 15978:2011 and EN 15643-5:2017). When these individual materials or products
are used together within a larger or more complex product (such as a building or infrastructure
asset), additional environmental flows are required. This is represented by A4-A5 within EN
15978:2011 and EN 15643-5:2017 and includes those associated with:
• transport of materials to a construction site – for example, the fuel used to operate
trucks;
• the assembly or construction process – for example, the energy used to cut and fix
materials or operate machinery; and
In addition to this, further minor materials may be required that are often not quantified as
part of Step 2. This could include fixings such as nails and screws, electrical wiring and fittings.
Direct flows
of resources Assembly/
Construction
Additional processes and flows
42
Environmental flows for these additional processes could be quantified using a process
analysis. However, the complexity of identifying the source of all main materials and tracing
their journey from factory to site, or identifying the environmental flows associated with the
provision of services, is unlikely to be feasible on an individual construction project. Also,
without physical quantities of minor materials, coefficients are not useful. Environmentally-
extended input-output data can be used in the absence of process data for these additional
processes. This is a unique characteristic of the hybrid approach, accounting for processes
and related environmental flows not typically included in a process analysis.
• Identify relevant economic sector responsible for the construction of the project
being assessed – for construction projects this will be one of: Residential Building
Construction, Non-Residential Building Construction or Heavy and Civil Engineering
Construction (for full sector list, see Appendix A).
• Select table of sector-based inputs for relevant economic sector responsible for the
construction of the project (Appendix C – construction sectors provided).
• For each main material quantified in Step 2, select the relevant economic sector
responsible for its production and identify its total environmental flow requirement for
the environmental flow/s being considered (as per table selected from Appendix C).
43
• Sum the total environmental flow requirements of each unique economic sector for
the environmental flow/s being considered.
*this flow is not unique and thus not included to avoid double counting.
• Subtract the sum of environmental flows representing main materials for the flow/s
being considered from the total environmental flow requirement of the relevant
economic sector.
Sample – quantifying total additional embodied environmental flows for the project
44
Step 6.
Total embodied environmental flows for the project are quantified.
• Add the total embodied environmental flows associated with the main materials
(from Step 4) to the total additional environmental flows (from Step 5).
Flows for Main Materials Additional Flows Total Flows per Project
99 090 MJ + 553 000 MJ = 652 090 MJ
Notes
1. The proportion of additional flows in the sample above is higher than in reality. This is
due to the limited number of materials quantified, and thus the small amount of process
data used.
2. Materials and environmental flows associated with on-site wastage are not typically
accounted for in the material quantities extracted from a BoQ. Thus, as part of Step 2,
wastage multipliers may be used to ensure these are covered.
45
5
EPiC DATABASE
A database of embodied environmental flow coefficients for a
broad range of construction materials and products. Detailed
factsheets provide insight into each material and their respective
embodied energy, water and greenhouse gas emissions.
48
EPiC Database
The EPiC Database contains hybrid environmental flow coefficients for a broad range of
construction materials and products. A total of 1 227 coefficients are provided across three
environmental flows - energy, water and greenhouse gas emissions. The reported embodied
energy coefficients are in primary energy terms, covering the entire energy supply chain.
Glass
Insulation
Metals
Miscellaneous
Plastics
Timber products
While the database does not contain an exhaustive list of materials, additional materials can
be added, especially where process data in the form of environmental product declarations
or life cycle inventories already exist, as further data becomes available, or new materials are
developed.
This section provides a summary of all coefficients contained within the EPiC Database,
followed by individual material factsheets which provide further details about each material.
49
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Blocks Concrete block kg 2.6 3.7 0.24
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
50
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Concrete 25 MPa - 40% fly ash m³ 2 121 4 007 250
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
51
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Concrete 40 MPa - 50% fly ash m³ 2 436 3 909 290
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
52
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Concrete 65 MPa - 20% GGBFS m³ 4 856 4 570 625
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
53
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Concrete 100 MPa - 50% GGBFS m³ 6 308 4 629 671
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
54
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Flat glass Sheet kg 28.5 32.2 2
GLASS
55
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Cellulose General kg 12.1 20.5 0.79
INSULATION
56
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Aluminium Extruded kg 358 182 29.4
METALS
57
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Stainless steel Wire kg 226 253 13.9
METALS
58
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Asphalt General kg 4.2 2.9 0.2
MISCELLANEOUS
59
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Other Silicone kg 224 589 13.8
MISCELLANEOUS
polyethylene
(HDPE) 100 μm m² 13.8 16.2 0.6
200 μm m² 27.6 32.4 1.2
Pipe kg 135 130 5.6
32 mm inner dia., 1.88 mm thick m 12.3 11.9 0.51
63 mm inner dia., 3.75 mm thick m 47.7 46.1 2
125 mm inner dia., 7.35 mm thick m 188 181 7.8
250 mm inner dia., 14.71 mm thick m 752 726 31
500 mm inner dia., 29.41 mm thick m 3 007 2 903 124
800 mm inner dia., 47.06 mm thick m 7 698 7 433 318
60
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Low density Film kg 136 122 6.4
PLASTICS
polyethylene
(LDPE) 100 μm m² 12.3 11.1 0.58
200 μm m² 24.7 22.2 1.2
Pipe kg 130 89.6 6
13 mm inner dia., 3.95 mm thick m 11 7.6 0.51
19 mm inner dia., 4.4 mm thick m 17.3 11.9 0.8
25 mm inner dia., 5.2 mm thick m 26.6 18.4 1.2
32 mm inner dia., 6.7 mm thick m 43.9 30.3 2
Nylon Nylon 66 kg 335 910 22.2
Sheet - 1.5 mm m² 572 1 556 37.9
Sheet - 3 mm m² 1 145 3 113 75.8
Sheet - 5 mm m² 1 908 5 188 126
Other Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) kg 270 359 16
Panel - 2mm m² 577 767 34.3
Panel - 3mm m² 866 1 151 51.4
Pipe - 21.4 mm outer dia., 2.1 mm thick m 36.8 48.9 2.2
Pipe - 48.3 mm outer dia., 3.6 mm thick m 146 194 8.7
Pipe - 168.3 mm outer dia., 7.7 mm thick m 1 122 1 491 66.6
Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) kg 12 063 22 606 798
Film - 25.4 μm m² 306 574 20.3
Film - 50.8 μm m² 613 1 148 40.5
Film - 127 μm m² 1 532 2 871 101
Glass reinforced plastic (GRP) kg 299 529 18.8
Panel - 10 mm m² 4 037 7 144 254
Panel - 20 mm m² 8 075 14 288 509
Panel - 50 mm m² 20 187 35 719 1 271
61
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Other Linoleum kg 58.2 195 4.4
PLASTICS
62
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Polyvinyl Film kg 190 758 11.2
PLASTICS
chloride (PVC)
19 μm m² 5 20 0.3
25 μm m² 6.6 26.3 0.39
uPVC kg 76.3 561 4.2
Pipe - 21.35 mm outer dia., 1.8 mm thick m 11.7 86.2 0.64
Pipe - 60.25 mm outer dia., 2.6 mm thick m 50 367 2.7
Pipe - 114.3 mm outer dia., 4.85 mm thick m 177 1 301 9.7
Pipe - 225.3 mm outer dia., 11.1 mm thick m 792 5 826 43.2
Brick Adobe kg 3.5 2.7 0.3
SAND, STONE & CERAMICS
63
Embodied Water (L)
Emissions (kgCO₂e)
Embodied Energy
Greenhouse Gas
Functional Unit
Embodied
(MJ)
Manufactured Cross laminated timber (CLT) m³ 9 607 8 608 645
TIMBER PRODUCTS
timber
product 60 mm m² 576 516 38.7
105 mm m² 1 009 904 67.7
175 mm m² 1 681 1 506 113
Manufactured Glued laminated timber - indoor m³ 29 996 35 813 1 718
timber
product Glued laminated timber - outdoor m³ 28 279 31 246 1 605
Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) m³ 17 479 18 025 1 059
Medium density fibreboard (MDF) sheet m³ 15 016 8 471 899
Melamine-coated MDF sheet - 16 mm m² 344 283 18.7
Melamine-coated MDF sheet - 18 mm m² 390 323 21.3
Melamine-coated MDF sheet - 25 mm m² 557 453 30.5
Oriented strand board (OSB) sheet m³ 14 422 17 997 751
Particleboard - indoor m³ 12 717 10 720 696
Particleboard - outdoor m³ 15 879 20 491 813
Plywood - indoor decorative m³ 63 691 69 363 3 680
Plywood - outdoor m³ 26 790 23 083 1 777
Structural insulated panel (SIP) - 112 mm m² 2 624 4 219 135
142 mm m² 3 327 5 349 171
162 mm m² 3 795 6 103 195
Softwood Air-dried m³ 9 392 13 091 549
Kiln-dried m³ 9 704 13 181 583
64
65
Interpreting EPiC Database Factsheets
Functional unit
This is the base unit of
Material metadata
measurement for the
Material name A selection of the key
material. Coefficients
characteristics of the
relate to this specific
material
quantity of the
material
Material
category
The category in
which the material
is grouped Common uses
Some of the
most common
uses for the
material
Description
A description of
the material
including how it is
made and some
of its key
characteristics
66
Top three inputs
A list of the inputs
associated with the Energy
top three flows for This is the embodied
the material, energy coefficient for
showing their the base functional
contribution as a unit of the material
proportion of the
total hybrid
environmental flow. Water
Process-based This is the embodied
flows are denoted water coefficient for
in a darker shade the base functional
unit of the material
Coefficient
comparison
The material
coefficient based on
process data or
input-output data can
be useful for
comparing to the final
hybrid coefficient Greenhouse gas
emissions
This is the embodied
Coefficient breakdown greenhouse gas emissions
A breakdown of the hybrid coefficient, showing coefficient for the base
contribution of process and input-output data functional unit of the material
Input-output (included)
Input-output data for nodes where
no process data is available
Process (excluded)
Process data for nodes
representing less than Process (included)
0.02% of the total Process data included in
process coefficient the final hybrid coefficient
Input-output (excluded)
Input-output data for nodes considered
equivalent to available process data, and
thus excluded to avoid double counting
67
kg Concrete block
Concrete blocks (also known as concrete masonry units or CMU) Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
plaster products
are precast rectangular shaped blocks manufactured from concrete.
Type Concrete
They generally contain one or more hollow cavities, which reduces
their weight and makes handling easier. Steel reinforcement is often Functional kg
unit
inserted into these cavities, which are then filled with concrete in situ
Specific heat 1 000 J/(kg·K)
to provide added strength and loadbearing capacity.
Density 1 400 kg/m³
Concrete blocks come in a range of sizes, with typical blocks coming in
Common uses
a length of 390 mm, a height of 190 mm and depth of 90, 140 and 190 External walls, internal walls,
landscaping
mm. Each block weighs around 10 kg and has a minimum strength of
15 MPa. A range of colours and surface textures are available. Process name
Concrete block, at plant/DE U/
AusSD U
Blocks are typically used for internal and external walls in both
domestic and commercial construction and can be used with or Input-output sector
Plaster and Concrete Product
without mortar for loadbearing and non-loadbearing applications. Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da552ea39cdc
68
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.7% Road Transport
MJ/kg
2.6
6.1% Structural Metal Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
7.5%
Tanned Leather, Dressed
Fur and Leather Product WATER
Manufacturing
3.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.7 2.6 3.7
0.24
3.5% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.17 0.27 0.24
69
kg Cement mortar
Cement mortar contains Portland cement, sand and hydrated lime. It Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
plaster products
is used as a bonding layer for bricks, masonry blocks and stonework.
Type Other minerals
It is generally available in bags (usually up to 20 kg) and is mixed with Functional kg
water on site to form a highly workable paste. Once cured, it becomes unit
hard but is designed to be weaker than the masonry elements it is Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
A range of mortar types are available, ranging in strength depending Common uses
Bonding masonry walls, pointing,
on the mix ratio, with stronger mortars containing a higher proportion render
of cement. Mortars containing alternative binders are also available, Process name
including polymer cement and lime mortars. Cement mortar, at plant/CH U/
AusSD U
Input-output sector
Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed
Concrete Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5528f75432
70
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
14.2% Road Transport
MJ/kg
3.9
2.7% Petroleum and Coal Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
3.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.8 3.4 3.7
0.35
1.4% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.24 0.39 0.35
71
kg Portland cement
plaster products
cement) is manufactured from limestone, clay and gypsum. A range
Type Other minerals
of additional minerals or additives can be added to control the
properties of the finished cement. Functional kg
unit
Limestone and other raw materials are heated at over 1 000°C to Specific heat 920 J/(kg·K)
produce clinker. The clinker is then mixed with gypsum and ground Density 1 500 kg/m³
into a fine powder to produce Portland cement.
Common uses
Concrete, fibre cement sheet, fibre
Portland cement is typically used as a binder for concrete and cement- cement weatherboard, cement
mortar, cement render
based products, such as fibre cement sheet and cement mortar. When
mixed with water it forms a workable slurry that undergoes a process Process name
Ordinary portland cement, at plant/
known as hydration, setting within a few hours and forming its final AU U
hardened state within weeks.
Input-output sector
Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed
Concrete Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55701cee5d
72
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
37.7% Clinker, at plant/AU U
MJ/kg
11.8
15.3% Road Transport MJ/kg
7.8
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.3 11 7.8
1.3
4.2% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1 1.3 1.3
73
kg Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC)
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, also known as AAC, is a lightweight Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
concrete product manufactured from cement, water, aluminium
Type Concrete
powder and sand. Hydrogen gas is used to create air bubbles in the
mix. AAC is generally rated at 8 MPa, with up to 80% of its volume Functional kg
unit
made up of air.
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
Its lightweight nature, which is 20% lighter than standard concrete, Density 550 kg/m³
makes it easier to work with. AAC materials can be sanded and cut to
Common uses
size using standard power tools and have superior thermal properties External walls, internal walls, floors
to standard concrete.
Process name
Autoclaved aerated concrete block,
AAC comes in a variety of product types, including blocks and panels. at plant/CH U/AusSD U
AAC blocks are typically used for domestic wall construction and are Input-output sector
available as a 600 mm wide and 200 mm high block in thicknesses Plaster and Concrete Product
Manufacturing
ranging from 50 to 300 mm. Blocks can be used for loadbearing walls
Further information
up to three storeys. Panels are often used for both wall and floor [Link]/10.26188/5da551fc254d7
construction in residential and commercial applications. They are
600 mm wide, 75 mm thick and come in lengths ranging from 1800
to 4 800 mm.
74
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.4% Road Transport
MJ/kg
8.5
5.8% Structural Metal Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
10.2%
Tanned Leather, Dressed
Fur and Leather Product WATER
Manufacturing
8.4
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.2 8.1 8.4
0.71
3.7% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.48 0.83 0.71
75
m³ Concrete 20 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 335 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Floor slabs, suspended slabs,
driveways, precast wall panels
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials. Process name
Concrete 20 MPa, at batching plant/
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in AU U
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured
Input-output sector
to meet a variety of strength grades. Concrete 20 MPa is commonly Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed
Concrete Manufacturing
used in domestic floor construction, garage floors and driveways,
where the loads supported are lighter. The typical mix ratio is 1:1.5:3 Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da54a205d0e5
(cement, sand, coarse aggregate).
76
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
9.1% Road Transport
MJ/m³
2 404
1.2% Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U MJ/m³
4 154
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 562 1 329 4 154
328
0.8% Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
321 153 328
77
m³ Concrete 25 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 409 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Floor slabs, suspended slabs,
precast wall panels
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials. Process name
Concrete 25 MPa, at batching plant/
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in AU U
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured
Input-output sector
to meet a variety of strength grades. Concrete 25 MPa is commonly Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed
Concrete Manufacturing
used in domestic and commercial floor construction and is
considered to be a multi-purpose concrete mix. The typical mix ratio Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da54a4ae57a1
is [Link] (cement, sand, coarse aggregate).
78
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
8.5% Road Transport
MJ/m³
2 691
0.9% Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U MJ/m³
4 277
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3628 1380 4277
368
0.7% Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
359 159 368
79
m³ Concrete 32 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 327 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Floor slabs, suspended slabs,
precast wall panels, in situ
loadbearing walls, piling, roads
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Process name
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in Concrete 32 MPa, at batching plant/
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured AU U
80
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
7.9% Road Transport
MJ/m³
3 015
0.9% Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U MJ/m³
4 300
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 643 1 441 4 300
416
0.6% Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
412 166 416
81
m³ Concrete 40 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 400 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Structural beams, structural
columns, in situ loadbearing walls,
structural piling
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Process name
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in Concrete 40 MPa, at batching plant/
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured AU U
82
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
7.2% Road Transport
MJ/m³
3 476
0.8% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining MJ/m³
4 355
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 686 1 523 4 355
497
0.5% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
497 176 497
83
m³ Concrete 50 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 393 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Structural beams, structural
columns, in situ loadbearing walls,
structural piling
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Process name
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in Concrete 50 MPa, at batching plant/
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured AU U
84
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.7% Road Transport
MJ/m³
4 247
0.7% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining MJ/m³
4 625
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 872 1 719 4 625
626
0.4% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
629 198 626
85
m³ Concrete 65 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 332 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Structural beams, structural
columns, in situ loadbearing walls,
structural piling
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Process name
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in Concrete 65 MPa, at batching plant/
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured AU U (custom)
86
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.2% Road Transport
MJ/m³
5 246
0.7% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining MJ/m³
4 730
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 900 1 983 4 730
728
0.4% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
729 229 728
87
m³ Concrete 80 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 281 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Structural beams, structural
columns, in situ loadbearing walls,
structural piling
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Process name
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in Concrete 80 MPa, at batching plant/
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured AU U (custom)
88
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.2% Road Transport
MJ/m³
6 203
0.7% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining MJ/m³
4 959
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 976 2 318 4 959
851
0.4% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
851 267 851
89
m³ Concrete 100 MPa
Concrete is a composite material combining sand or other fine Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
Plaster Products
aggregates, coarse aggregates, a binder and water. Portland cement
Type Concrete
is the most commonly used binder, however other binders, such as
polymers, may also be used. Supplementary Cementitious Materials Functional m³
unit
(SCM) such as Fly Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
(GGBFS), are also commonly used as a part replacement for Portland
Density 2 202 kg/m³
cement. Additives, such as plasticisers can be added to the mix to
control concrete properties, such as workability. Concrete is usually Common uses
combined with steel reinforcement to improve tensile strength. Structural beams, structural
columns, in situ loadbearing walls,
structural piling
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Process name
It is highly durable and is thus typically used for structural elements in Concrete 100 MPa, at batching
buildings and infrastructure projects. Concrete can be manufactured plant/AU U (custom)
to meet a variety of strength grades. Concrete 100 MPa is commonly Input-output sector
Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed
used in commercial and civil construction where high strength and
Concrete Manufacturing
durability are required. The mix will generally have a lower water to
Further information
cement ratio than standard concrete. [Link]/10.26188/22896566
90
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.3% Road Transport
MJ/m³
7 478
0.7% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining MJ/m³
5 297
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
4 062 2 833 5 297
1 011
0.4% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
1 006 327 1 011
91
m³ Geopolymer concrete
Plaster Products
Geopolymer concrete is made from waste materials such as Fly
Type Concrete
Ash and Ground, Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS). The use
of geopolymer concrete helps to reduce natural resource use and Functional m³
unit
greenhouse gas emissions by reducing Portland cement demand.
Specific heat 880 J/(kg·K)
The main constituents of geopolymers are silicon and aluminium,
Density 2 401 kg/m³
which are provided by thermally activated natural materials, such as
kaolinite or industrial byproducts (e.g. fly ash or slag) and an alkaline Common uses
activating solution which polymerises these materials into molecular Structural beams, structural
columns, in situ loadbearing walls,
chains and networks to create hardened binder. structural piling
Process name
Geopolymer binder is also known as alkali-activated cement or Geopolymer concrete 32 MPa, at
inorganic polymer cement. As for Portlnd cement concrete, the batching plant
geopolymer binder is combined with sand or other fine aggregates, Input-output sector
Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed
coarse aggregates, and water to form the concrete mix.
Concrete Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]
92
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/m³
1 752
13.6% Road Transport MJ/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 640 1 440 4 256
Process IO Hybrid
120 166 121
93
kg Fibre cement sheet
Fibre cement sheet is a non-structural material manufactured from Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
plaster products
Portland cement, cellulose fibres and water. Sheets come in standard
Type Fibre cement
sizes, generally 1 800 to 3 000 mm in length, 900 or 1 200 mm wide
and in thicknesses ranging from 4.5 mm to 24 mm. They can be easily Functional kg
unit
cut to size on site. Thicker boards provide superior impact resistance
Specific heat 832 J/(kg·K)
while thinner boards are typically used in situations where impact
Density 1 445 kg/m³
resistance is not as crucial.
Common uses
Thermal and acoustic performance is generally poor and additional Internal wall lining, external wall
cladding, soffit lining, structural
insulation is usually needed when used as external cladding.
bracing
However, it is termite and rot resistant and has very high fire resistance
Process name
properties. Fibre cement roof slate, at plant/CH
U/AusSD U
Fibre cement sheet is often used as a replacement for plasterboard,
Input-output sector
particularly in situations that are exposed to water (such as wet Other Non-Metallic Mineral Product
Manufacturing
areas). It can be used for both residential and commercial buildings
in a range of applications, including internal and external cladding, Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da554545f280
soffit linings and structural bracing.
94
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
12.1% Road Transport
MJ/kg
18.3
6.1% Structural Metal Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
9.0%
Tanned Leather, Dressed
Fur and Leather Product WATER
Manufacturing
19.8
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
11.4 17.6 19.8
1.6
4.2% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.1 1.9 1.6
95
kg Fibre cement weatherboard
plaster products
manufactured from Portland cement, cellulose fibres and water.
Type Fibre cement
Boards generally come in 4 200 mm lengths, in widths from 150 to
300 mm and in thicknesses ranging from 7.5 mm to 16 mm. They can Functional kg
unit
be easily cut to size on site. Thicker boards provide superior impact
Specific heat 832 J/(kg·K)
resistance while thinner boards are typically used in situations where
Density 1 445 kg/m³
impact resistance is not as crucial. They come in a range of textured
finishes. Common uses
External wall cladding
Fibre cement weatherboards are used as an external wall cladding.
Process name
Each board is installed to overlap the board below, and as such, the Fibre cement facing tile, at plant/CH
U/AusSD U
effective wall coverage area is typically 80-90% of the actual area of
boards used. Input-output sector
Other Non-Metallic Mineral Product
Manufacturing
Thermal and acoustic performance is generally poor and additional
Further information
insulation is usually needed. However, it is termite and rot resistant [Link]/10.26188/5da55463adae0
and has very high fire resistance properties.
96
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
26.1
12.5% Fibre cement facing tile, small MJ/kg
format, at plant/CH U/AusSD U
31.3
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
13.4 20.5 31.3
Process IO Hybrid
1.5 2.2 2.2
97
kg Gypsum plaster
plaster products
manufactured from gypsum rock and additives. The gypsum is heated
Type Plaster
to produce a dry plaster powder. It is then mixed with water to form
a highly workable paste, which then hardens. It is a non-loadbearing Functional kg
unit
material that is commonly used as a protective or decorative coating
Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
for walls and ceilings and for moulding and casting decorative
Density 1 956 kg/m³
building elements.
Common uses
Gypsum plaster is often used to simulate other materials, such as Decorative building elements,
plasterboard, plaster cornices, filling
timber, metal and stone, due to its ability to be formed into any shape,
gaps, wall finish
which can be easily sanded. It is also a core material for plasterboard
Process name
and other plaster-based products, such as cornices. Alternative forms Stucco, at plant/CH U/AusSD U
of plaster include lime and cement-based plasters.
Input-output sector
Plaster and Concrete Product
Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da554d7d6197
98
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
7.4% Road Transport
MJ/kg
6.5
6.7% Structural Metal Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
11.6%
Tanned Leather, Dressed
Fur and Leather Product WATER
Manufacturing
6.5
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.11 7.1 6.5
Process IO Hybrid
0.096 0.73 0.44
99
m² Plasterboard
Plasterboard, also known as gypsum board, is a wall and ceiling lining Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
plaster products
material manufactured from gypsum, water and paper. A gypsum-
Type Plaster
based plaster is sandwiched between two layers of paper. The plaster
often contains a paper or fibreglass fibre as well as various additives. Functional m²
unit
After the plaster sets it is then dried in a large drying chamber. It is
Specific heat 1 225 J/(kg·K)
then cured at high temperatures before being cut to size.
Density 570 kg/m³
Plasterboard is used to provide a lining for internal walls and ceilings.
Common uses
A variety of product types are available, including acoustic-rated, fire- Internal wall lining, internal ceiling
lining
rated and moisture-resistant plasterboard. It is typically finished with
paint once installed. It has a relatively low durability and is thus easily Process name
Plasterboard 10 mm, at regional
damaged, but can usually be repaired with gypsum plaster products. store/AU U
It comes in standard sizes, typically 1 200 × 2 400 mm, 1 200 × 4 800
Input-output sector
mm and 1 200 × 6 000 mm and 10 or 13 mm thick. The 13 mm board is Plaster and Concrete Product
Manufacturing
generally used in commercial applications due to its better durability
and acoustic properties. Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556516b6e3
100
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
5.8% Road Transport
MJ/m²
86.1
5.2% Structural Metal Product MJ/m²
Manufacturing
8.8%
Tanned Leather, Dressed
Fur and Leather Product WATER
Manufacturing
85.6
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
49.4 73 85.6
Process IO Hybrid
4.9 7.5 5.8
101
kg Concrete roof tile
Concrete roof tiles are a roof cladding material manufactured from Category Concrete and
CONCRETE AND PLASTER PRODUCTS
plaster products
concrete. A concrete mix, containing sand, cement and water is
Type Concrete
extruded into moulds and kiln dried for a number of hours. Concrete
roof tiles come in a range of colours and profiles with a typical weight Functional kg
unit
of around 5 kg per tile and an average thickness of around 20 mm. A
Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
range of capping tiles are also available for ridges and other roofing
Density 2 100 kg/m³
junctions.
Common uses
They are installed using clips attached to timber or steel roof battens Roof cladding
and overlap to ensure no water ingress into a building. Concrete roof
Process name
tiles are typically used in domestic construction where the roof pitch Concrete roof tile, at plant/CH U/
AusSD U
is at least 15 degrees.
Input-output sector
Plaster and Concrete Product
Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da552f96c488
102
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
4.3
6.8% Road Transport MJ/kg
5.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.4 4.3 5.7
Process IO Hybrid
0.24 0.44 0.39
103
m² Flat glass double glazing
Flat glass double glazing is a glazing system that combines two Category Glass
GLASS
sheets of flat glass separated by a sealed gas-filled cavity. These Type Glass
systems are also commonly referred to as insulated glass units (IGU). Functional m²
An aluminium spacer is used to separate the glass panes, attached to unit
the glass with an adhesive. The cavity is then filled with an inert gas. Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
Argon, xenon and krypton are the most commonly used gases. Density 2 600 kg/m³
The double glazed system is typically used to improve the acoustic or Common uses
Windows
thermal performance of a window. The thickness of each glass pane
Process name
generally ranges from 3 to 10 mm and the gas-filled cavity typically
Glazing, double (2-IV), U<1.1 W/m2K,
ranges from 6 to 12 mm. at plant/RER U/AusSD U
Input-output sector
The same glass thickness is usually used for both panes, but in some Glass and Glass Product
circumstances the thickness may vary. Laminated or toughened glass Manufacturing
can also be used in place of flat glass. Various coatings (such as low-e) Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55375f3452
can also be applied to the glass surfaces to improve its thermal,
acoustic or privacy characteristics.
104
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
10.2% Road Transport
MJ/m²
1 336
7.8% Flat glass, coated, at plant/RER MJ/m²
U/AusSD U
1 558
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
548 1 432 1 558
Process IO Hybrid
37.1 132 101
105
kg Flat glass
Flat glass, also known as soda-lime glass, is made from a combination Category Glass
GLASS
of silica, soda, lime (from limestone), dolomite and aluminium oxide. Type Glass
Cullet, or waste glass, can also be added. The raw materials are melted Functional kg
at high temperature and the molten glass is then formed into flat glass unit
using a variety of processes. A floating process, where the molten Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
glass is floated on a bed of tin, is most common for manufacturing Density 2 600 kg/m³
window glass. This gives it the common name of float glass.
Common uses
Windows, skylights, internal
The speed at which glass flows across the tin bath determines the partitions, doors
glass thickness, which typically ranges from 2 to 25 mm. The glass is
Process name
then gradually cooled (annealed) and cut to size. It can also be coated Flat glass, uncoated, at plant/RER
U/AusSD U
with a range of materials to provide particular characteristics (such as
thermal, reflective, privacy). Input-output sector
Glass and Glass Product
Manufacturing
Flat glass is commonly used in buildings to provide daylight and
Further information
views. It is used for windows, glass doors and transparent walls. [Link]/10.26188/5da554738e0e0
106
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
10.2% Road Transport
MJ/kg
28.5
2.3% Soda, powder, at plant/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
32.2
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
10.1 30.4 32.2
Process IO Hybrid
1 2.8 2
107
kg Laminated glass
Laminated glass is a composite safety glass, made by combing two Category Glass
GLASS
or more sheets of flat glass with a plastic, or polyvinyl butyral (PVB) Type Glass
interlayer (usually 0.38 mm thick). The layers are bonded together Functional kg
using heat and pressure. unit
Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
Flat glass is made from a combination of silica, soda, lime, dolomite
Density 2 600 kg/m³
and aluminium oxide. The raw materials are melted at high
temperature and the molten glass is then formed into flat glass using Common uses
Windows, doors, partitions,
a variety of processes. A floating process, where the molten glass is skylights, ballustrades
floated on a bed of tin, is most common for manufacturing window
Process name
glass. The glass is then gradually cooled (annealed) and cut to size. Laminated safety glass (per mass),
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
Laminated glass is commonly used for windows, glass doors and Input-output sector
transparent walls, where there is an increased chance of damage, as Glass and Glass Product
Manufacturing
when broken, the glass remains intact, held together by the PVB layer.
Further information
It provides added safety, security, thermal and acoustic properties [Link]/10.26188/5da5556225c38
over flat glass. The glass comes in a range of thicknesses, starting
from 6.38 mm.
108
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
7.2% Road Transport
MJ/kg
36.4
2.2% Oil and gas extraction MJ/kg
59.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
42.6 27.5 59.7
2.8
2.9% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2 2.5 2.8
109
m² Toughened glass double glazing
Toughened glass double glazing is a glazing system combining two Category Glass
GLASS
the glass with an adhesive. The cavity is then filled with an inert gas. Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
Argon, xenon and krypton are the most commonly used gases. Density 2 600 kg/m³
The double glazed system is typically used to improve the acoustic or Common uses
Windows, doors, skylights, internal
thermal performance of a window. The thickness of each glass pane partitions
generally ranges from 3 to 10 mm and the gas-filled cavity typically
Process name
ranges from 6 to 12 mm. Glazing, double (2-IV), U<1.1 W/m2K,
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
The same glass thickness is usually used for both panes, but in some Input-output sector
circumstances the thickness may vary. Laminated or flat glass can also Glass and Glass Product
Manufacturing
be used in place of toughened glass. Toughened glass is used where
Further information
additional strength is required or there is increased risk of damage. [Link]/10.26188/5da553f3e04ff
Various coatings (such as low-e) can also be applied to the glass
surfaces to improve its thermal, acoustic or privacy characteristics.
110
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
10.7% Road Transport
MJ/m²
1 536
6.8% Flat glass, coated, at plant/RER MJ/m²
U/AusSD U
1 772
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
548 1 727 1 772
Process IO Hybrid
37.1 159 115
111
kg Toughened glass
Toughened, or tempered glass is made from flat glass that has been Category Glass
GLASS
strengthened. Flat glass is made from a combination of silica, soda, Type Glass
lime, dolomite and aluminium oxide. The raw materials are melted at Functional kg
high temperature and the molten glass is then formed into flat glass unit
using a variety of processes. A floating process, where the molten Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
glass is floated on a bed of tin, is most common for manufacturing Density 2 600 kg/m³
window glass. The glass is then gradually cooled (annealed) and cut
Common uses
to size. Windows, doors, partitions,
skylights, ballustrades, shower
screens
To produce toughened glass, the flat glass is then heated and rapidly
cooled, increasing compressive stress on the outer surfaces of the Process name
Tempered glass (custom)
glass. This produces glass that is 5 times stronger than standard flat
glass. Input-output sector
Glass and Glass Product
Manufacturing
Toughened glass is commonly used for windows, glass doors,
Further information
balustrades, shower screens and pool fences. It provides added [Link]/10.26188/5da5589913df4
safety over flat glass as when broken, the glass shatters into small
even pieces.
112
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
29.8
9.1% Road Transport MJ/kg
30.2
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
11.5 28.4 30.2
2.2
3.9% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.3 2.6 2.2
113
kg Cellulose insulation
Cellulose is an organic compound that constitutes the primary cell Category Insulation
INSULATION
wall of green plants and is the most abundant polymer on Earth. Type Cellulose
Cellulose insulation has good thermal insulation properties (heat Functional kg
conductivity = 0.04 W/(m·K)). It also acts as sound insulation. unit
Specific heat 1 400 J/(kg·K)
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper (75-85%) and
Density 50 kg/m³
from natural fire retardants and anti-fungal agents such as boric acid
(15-25%). Newspapers are shredded and mixed with boric acid before Common uses
Insulation
being turned into small fibres. These are packaged for installation on
Process name
site.
Cellulose fibre, inclusive blowing in,
at plant/CH U/AusSD U
Cellulose insulation is mostly used in roofs and walls and is typically
Input-output sector
blown. Other Wood Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5528023cab
114
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
17.3% Road Transport
MJ/kg
12.1
4.5% Boric acid, anhydrous, powder, MJ/kg
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
20.5
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
13.4 14.4 20.5
Process IO Hybrid
0.56 0.64 0.79
115
m² Aluminium foil insulation
light, infrared radiation and sometimes air, moisture and bacteria, Specific heat 0.01 J/(kg·K)
depending on perforation and treatment. Density 321 kg/m³
116
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
4.2% Road Transport
MJ/m²
25.6
0.6% Oil and gas extraction MJ/m²
Electricity Transmission,
0.6% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation Process IO Hybrid
12.6 55.9 25.6
33.8
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
13.3 36.1 33.8
1.9
1.7% Road Transport
kgCO2e/m²
Process IO Hybrid
0.96 2.8 1.9
117
kg Glasswool insulation
Glasswool or fibreglass insulation contains micro fibres of glass that Category Insulation
INSULATION
trap pockets of air within. This results in a low density and low thermal Type Glass
conductivity (0.04 W/(m·K)), which is ideal for insulation materials. Functional kg
unit
Glasswool is made by mixing sand and recycled glass and melting Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
them at 1 450°C to obtain glass. This glass is turned into fibres using a
Density 25 kg/m³
process similar to making cotton candy, by forcing it through a mesh
and cooling it by contact with air. A binder is added beforehand to Common uses
Wall and ceiling insulation
ensure cohesion and mechanical strength. The resulting fibre is
Process name
heated at 200°C to polymerise the resin. The resulting insulation is
Glass wool mat, at plant/CH U/
calendered, before being cut and packed in rolls or panels. AusSD U
Input-output sector
Glasswool insulation is widely used in the construction industry as an Other Non-Metallic Mineral Product
insulation material for walls and ceilings. Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55494afb75
118
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
57.5
5.9% Formaldehyde, production mix, MJ/kg
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
40.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
30.8 16.8 40.7
Urea, as N, at regional
2.7%
storehouse/RER U/AusSD U
Process IO Hybrid
3.7 1.8 4
119
kg Polyester insulation
a fibre that is also commonly used for making bedding and clothing. Type Other minerals
Polyester insulation is a synthetic or man-made product based on Functional kg
petrochemicals. It is also often produced using recycled plastic unit
materials, such as plastic bottles, bags and packaging. Polyester Specific heat 1 200 J/(kg·K)
Insulation is also able to be fully recycled. Polyester insulation is fire Density 20 kg/m³
resistant, doesn’t attract vermin or develop mould.
Common uses
Wall and ceiling insulation
Polyester insulation is typically used in the construction industry as
Process name
an insulation material for walls, floors and ceilings. It comes in the
Fleece, polyethylene, at plant/RER
form of batts or rolls which are available in widths suited to standard U/AusSD U
spacings of wall studs, ceiling or floor joists. Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]
120
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
158
2.4% Road Transport MJ/kg
148
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
46.4 115 148
6.5
2.1% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3.7 6.4 6.5
121
kg Rockwool insulation
Rockwool, also called mineral wool, is made by spinning or drawing Category Insulation
INSULATION
molten rock materials into fibres. The resulting fibrous material has a Type Other minerals
very low density and low thermal conductivity (0.04 W/(m·K)). Functional kg
unit
Rockwool is produced by melting rock at 1 600°C and blowing air or Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
steam through the furnace to generate the fibres. Fibres can also be
Density 70 kg/m³
produced by spinning, similar to the process of making cotton candy
(the same process used to make fibreglass, or glasswool). The wool is Common uses
Insulation
packed in rolls or matts.
Process name
Rock wool, packed, at plant/CH U/
Rockwool insulation is widely used in the construction industry as AusSD U
thermal insulation. It has a high fire resistance depending on the
Input-output sector
constituting material, with ceramic fibre wool withstanding up to Other Non-Metallic Mineral Product
1 200°C of heat. Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55737d3e5e
122
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
57.1
13.8% Road Transport MJ/kg
Process IO Hybrid
13.9 62.7 62.2
Process IO Hybrid
1.5 6.7 3.8
123
kg Polystyrene (EPS/XPS) insulation
PS insulation is widely used in the construction industry. EPS is used Process name
Polystyrene foam slab, from
in walls and on roofs that do not require stepping onto. XPS, with expandable polystyrene (EPS)
its increased compressive strengths, can be stepped upon and is
Input-output sector
therefore more common on roofs. Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556cc242c5
124
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
155
6.9% Polymer foaming MJ/kg
841
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
735 130 841
8
13.4% Polymer foaming
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
5.2 7.2 8
125
kg Polyurethane (PU) insulation
Polyurethane (PU) is a polymer with a low density, low thermal Category Insulation
INSULATION
PU insulation consists of rigid foam panels that are used for high- Process name
Polyurethane, rigid foam, at plant/
performance insulation. RER U/AusSD U
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556ef90771
126
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
293
9.6% Polyols, at plant/RER U/AusSD MJ/kg
U
29.2%
Methylene diphenyl
diisocyanate, at plant/RER U/ WATER
AusSD U
690
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
340 389 690
Process IO Hybrid
4.7 21.6 17.5
127
kg Aluminium bar
with an average density of 2.7 t/m³. It is durable, corrosion resistant, Type Aluminium
a good reflector of both visible and infrared radiation, and highly Functional kg
recyclable. Aluminium alloys are used in the construction industry unit
as raw aluminium typically lacks the strength required for most of its Specific heat 910 J/(kg·K)
applications. Density 2 712 kg/m³
Aluminium is extracted from bauxite, its common ore, through an Common uses
Finishes, ventilation grilles
extensive process. Bauxite is converted to aluminium oxide through
Process name
the Bayer process. Aluminium oxide (or Alumina) is then converted
Aluminium section bar (custom)
to aluminium billets by the electricity-intensive Hall-Héroult process,
Input-output sector
made of 99% aluminium, which can be further purified if needed. Basic Non-Ferrous Metal
Aluminium billets are then thermoformed into the relevant shape. Manufacturing
Powder coating provides additional durability, custom colour and Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5519635948
improved performance.
128
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
345
5.3% Section bar extrusion, MJ/kg
aluminium/RER U/AusSD U
219
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
88.2 240 219
Process IO Hybrid
24.2 19 29.6
129
m² Aluminium composite panel
sandwiched between two aluminium sheets. Aluminium sheets are Type Aluminium
chosen for their durability, resistance to corrosion, large colour palette Functional m²
and strength. The foam is typically polyethylene or polyurethane. unit
Specific heat 1 000 J/(kg·K)
Rolled aluminium coils are used to sandwich the foam insulation,
Density 1 900 kg/m³
which is also fed to the manufacturing line as a roll. Adhesives are
used to glue the aluminium sheets to the core. Common uses
Cladding
Aluminium composite panels are typically used as cladding. The Process name
Aluminium composite panel,
panel specified here is 4 mm thick. ALUCOBOND, 4mm, FR (custom)
Input-output sector
Structural Metal Product
Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da551a4afce4
130
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
10.5% Iron and Steel Manufacturing
MJ/m²
1 196
6.2% Thermoforming, with MJ/m²
calendering/RER U/AusSD U
1 174
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
899 486 1 174
Process IO Hybrid
92.2 32 102
131
kg Aluminium extruded
with an average density of 2.7 t/m³. It is durable, corrosion resistant, Type Aluminium
a good reflector of both visible and infrared radiation, and highly Functional kg
recyclable. Aluminium alloys are used in the construction industry unit
as raw aluminium typically lacks the strength required for most of its Specific heat 910 J/(kg·K)
applications. Density 2 712 kg/m³
Aluminium is extracted from bauxite, its common ore, through an Common uses
Window frames, profiles
extensive process. Bauxite is converted to aluminium oxide through
Process name
the Bayer process. Aluminium oxide (or Alumina) is then converted
Aluminium extruded (custom)
to aluminium billets by the electricity-intensive Hall-Héroult process,
Input-output sector
made of 99% aluminium, which can be further purified if needed. Structural Metal Product
Aluminium billets are then thermoformed into the relevant shape. Manufacturing
132
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
358
10.3% Iron and Steel Manufacturing MJ/kg
182
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
85.8 147 182
29.4
4.8% Iron and Steel Manufacturing
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
25.2 9.6 29.4
133
kg Aluminium sheet
with an average density of 2.7 t/m³. It is durable, corrosion resistant, Type Aluminium
a good reflector of both visible and infrared radiation, and highly Functional kg
recyclable. Aluminium alloys are used in the construction industry unit
as raw aluminium typically lacks the strength required for most of its Specific heat 910 J/(kg·K)
applications. Density 2 712 kg/m³
Aluminium is extracted from bauxite, its common ore, through an Common uses
Cladding, structural elements,
extensive process. Bauxite is converted to aluminium oxide through tubes, plates
the Bayer process. Aluminium oxide (or Alumina) is then converted
Process name
to aluminium billets by the electricity-intensive Hall-Héroult process, Aluminium sheet rolled (custom)
made of 99% aluminium, which can be further purified if needed. Input-output sector
Aluminium billets are then thermoformed into the relevant shape. Basic Non-Ferrous Metal
Manufacturing
134
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
295
3.2% Sheet rolling, aluminium/RER MJ/kg
U/AusSD U
160
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
74.7 161 160
Process IO Hybrid
23.5 12.7 26.7
135
kg Copper pipe
Copper is a soft and malleable non-ferrous metal and has been used Category Metals
METALS
in construction for hundreds of years. It has high thermal and electric Type Copper
conduction properties. Functional kg
unit
Copper is made by crushing mined copper ores and flash smelting Specific heat 390 J/(kg·K)
them. The resulting copper sulphite is further heated with oxygen
Density 8 940 kg/m³
to obtain copper oxide. The latter is heated to obtain blister copper,
which is used to cast anodes that are turned into pure copper Common uses
Gas pipes, coolant pipes, water
cathodes through electroplating. These are then heated and extruded pipes
into pipes.
Process name
Copper wire (custom)
Copper has multiple uses in construction. Copper pipes are used
Input-output sector
for building services, including for gas and in heating, cooling and Basic Non-Ferrous Metal
ventilation systems. Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55317e50fc
136
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
150
4.7% Road Transport MJ/kg
289
L/kg
Electricity Transmission,
0.9% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation
Process IO Hybrid
176 229 289
Process IO Hybrid
4.8 18 10.1
137
kg Copper sheet
Copper is a soft and malleable non-ferrous metal and has been used Category Metals
METALS
in construction for hundreds of years. It has high thermal and electric Type Copper
conduction properties. Functional kg
unit
Copper is made by crushing mined copper ores and flash smelting Specific heat 390 J/(kg·K)
them. The resulting copper sulphite is further heated with oxygen
Density 8 940 kg/m³
to obtain copper oxide. The latter is heated to obtain blister copper,
which is used to cast anodes that are turned into pure copper Common uses
Roofing, cladding, gutters,
cathodes through electroplating. antimicrobial finished surfaces
Process name
Copper has multiple uses in construction. Copper sheets are often Copper sheet (custom)
used to manufacture roofing, cladding, gutters, antimicrobial finished
Input-output sector
surfaces and others. Basic Non-Ferrous Metal
Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55308b9bbe
138
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
226
5.4% Road Transport MJ/kg
389
L/kg
Electricity Transmission,
1.1% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation
Process IO Hybrid
171 395 389
Process IO Hybrid
4.5 31.1 15.1
139
kg Copper wire
Copper is a soft and malleable non-ferrous metal and has been used Category Metals
METALS
in construction for hundreds of years. It has high thermal and electric Type Copper
conduction properties. Functional kg
unit
Copper is made by crushing mined copper ores and flash smelting Specific heat 390 J/(kg·K)
them. The resulting copper sulphite is further heated with oxygen
Density 8 940 kg/m³
to obtain copper oxide. The latter is heated to obtain blister copper,
which is used to cast anodes that are turned into pure copper Common uses
Electrical cables
cathodes through electroplating. These cathodes are melted, roll
Process name
milled to a very small thickness and fed to a coiler than produces the
Copper wire (custom)
wire.
Input-output sector
Electrical Equipment Manufacturing
Copper has multiple uses in construction. Copper wires are used in
the majority of electrical cables. Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da553272580f
140
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
6.0% Road Transport
MJ/kg
671
5.9% Copper, primary, at refinery/ MJ/kg
GLO U/AusSD U
897
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
176 782 897
Electrical Equipment
41.8
6.9%
Manufacturing kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
4.8 62.2 41.8
141
kg Cold rolled stainless steel
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Stainless steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Stainless Functional kg
steel is extremely resistant to corrosion. unit
Specific heat 456 J/(kg·K)
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore.
Density 7 740 kg/m³
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. To render Common uses
Exterior cladding, handrails, counter
the steel stainless, chromium is needed and is typically added as tops, interior surfaces
stainless steel scraps. The molten steel is usually further processed
Process name
before being cast for its final use. Cold rolled steel is cooled at room Stainless steel, cold rolled (custom)
temperature and then annealed or tempered. Input-output sector
Iron and Steel Manufacturing
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a
Further information
structural material. Cold rolled stainless steel is used to produce a [Link]/10.26188/5dd09ea396b11
range of high-precision corrosion resistant materials.
142
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
123
6.5% Sheet rolling, chromium steel/ MJ/kg
RER U/AusSD U
Process IO Hybrid
103 216 168
9.2
7.6% Coal mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
5.4 11.7 9.2
143
kg Stainless steel extruded
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Stainless steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Stainless Functional kg
steel is extremely resistant to corrosion. unit
Specific heat 456 J/(kg·K)
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore.
Density 7 740 kg/m³
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. To render the Common uses
Tubes, pipes
steel stainless, chromium is needed and is typically added as stainless
Process name
steel scraps. The molten steel is usually further processed before
Stainless steel, hot extruded
being extruded into its final shape. (custom)
Input-output sector
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a Iron and Steel Manufacturing
structural material. Extruded stainless steel can be used to produce
Further information
a range of tubes for structural and finishing purposes as well as pipes. [Link]/10.26188/5da557cc41ed8
144
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
155
5.8% Road Transport MJ/kg
28.1%
Steel, converter, chromium
steel 18/8, at plant/RER U/ WATER
AusSD U
138
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
62.5 267 138
11.8
7.3% Coal mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
6.8 14.4 11.8
145
kg Stainless steel sheet
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Stainless steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Stainless Functional kg
steel is extremely resistant to corrosion. unit
Specific heat 456 J/(kg·K)
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore.
Density 7 740 kg/m³
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. To render the Common uses
High-durability cladding, tubes,
steel stainless, chromium is needed and is typically added as stainless roofing, kitchen surfaces
steel scraps. The molten steel is usually further processed before
Process name
being cast for its final use. Stainless steel, sheet (custom)
Input-output sector
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a Iron and Steel Manufacturing
structural material. Stainless steel sheets are used to produce a
Further information
range of finishing materials, such as high durability cladding, roofing [Link]/10.26188/5da557de9ee33
(mainly for airports), and kitchen surfaces.
146
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
97.6
8.1% Sheet rolling, chromium steel/ MJ/kg
RER U/AusSD U
Process IO Hybrid
103 136 140
Process IO Hybrid
5.4 7.4 7.2
147
kg Stainless steel wire
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Stainless steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Stainless Functional kg
steel is extremely resistant to corrosion. unit
Specific heat 456 J/(kg·K)
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore.
Density 7 740 kg/m³
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. To render the Common uses
Cables, ropes, structure, lighting
steel stainless, chromium is needed and is typically added as stainless
Process name
steel scraps. The molten steel is usually further processed before
Stainless steel, wire (custom)
being thermoformed into its final shape.
Input-output sector
Other Fabricated Metal Product
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a manufacturing
structural material. Stainless steel wires are typically used as ropes
Further information
and cables in multiple applications, including bridges, suspending [Link]/10.26188/5da5580349dda
structures, lighting and others.
148
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
Steel, converter, chromium
226
22.3% steel 18/8, at plant/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
15.3%
Steel, converter, chromium
steel 18/8, at plant/RER U/ WATER
AusSD U
253
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
82.5 245 253
Process IO Hybrid
5.1 15.8 13.9
149
kg Cold rolled steel
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Functional kg
unit
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. Specific heat 490 J/(kg·K)
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
Density 7 850 kg/m³
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten steel
is usually further processed before being cast for its final use. Cold Common uses
Truss members, wall and roof
rolled steel is cooled at room temperature and then annealed or systems
tempered.
Process name
Steel cold rolled (custom)
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a
Input-output sector
structural material. Cold rolled structural steel is used to produce a Iron and Steel Manufacturing
range of more precise structural elements compared to hot rolled
Further information
structural steel. These include structural members for trusses and [Link]/10.26188/5da552dadce9f
profiles for roof and wall systems.
150
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
51.7
9.9% Sheet rolling, steel/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
77.6
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
47.9 81.5 77.6
Process IO Hybrid
2.6 4.4 3.7
151
kg Hot rolled galvanised structural steel
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Galvanised steel
(zinc coated)
been used in the construction industry for over a century.
Functional kg
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. unit
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting Specific heat 456 J/(kg·K)
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten Density 7 850 kg/m³
steel is usually further processed before being cast for its final use.
Common uses
Galvanisation can be used to apply a coat of zinc crystals on the Beams, columns
surface of the steel to significantly improve its resistance to corrosion.
Process name
Galvanised hot rolled steel (custom)
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a
Input-output sector
structural material. Hot rolled galvanised steel is used to produce Structural Metal Product
elements for the outdoors, such as poles, pipes, and decking. Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5554017f41
152
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
43
9.4% Hot rolling, steel/RER U/AusSD MJ/kg
U
43.2
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
31.2 23.7 43.2
Process IO Hybrid
2.8 1.6 3.3
153
kg Hot rolled structural steel
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Functional kg
unit
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. Specific heat 490 J/(kg·K)
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
Density 7 850 kg/m³
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten steel
is usually further processed before being cast for its final use. Common uses
Reinforcement bars, beams, railroad
tracks
Steel is commonly used in the construction industry, mainly as a
Process name
structural material. Hot rolled structural steel is used to produce a Steel hot rolled (custom)
range of structural elements, such as reinforcement bars, I-beams and
Input-output sector
railroad tracks. Structural Metal Product
Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55550a40e9
154
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
38.8
10.0% Hot rolling, steel/RER U/AusSD MJ/kg
U
37.1
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
25.3 20.5 37.1
Process IO Hybrid
2.4 1.3 2.9
155
kg Steel bar
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Functional kg
unit
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. Specific heat 490 J/(kg·K)
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
Density 7 850 kg/m³
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten steel
is usually further processed before being cast for its final use. Common uses
Framing, plates
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55814c051c
156
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
29.5
2.3% Road Transport MJ/kg
44.3
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
37.9 22.7 44.3
2.1
1.6% Non Ferrous Metal Ore Mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.3 1.2 2.1
157
kg Steel hollow section extruded
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Functional kg
unit
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. Specific heat 490 J/(kg·K)
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
Density 7 850 kg/m³
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten
steel is usually further processed before being extruded into hollow Common uses
Structural profiles
sections.
Process name
Steel, extruded (custom)
Hollow sections of steel are commonly used in the construction
industry, mainly for structural purposes. Input-output sector
Iron and Steel Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da558259be14
158
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
54.8
2.2% Road Transport MJ/kg
45.2
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
37.1 35.3 45.2
4.6
2.2% Coal mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
4.3 1.9 4.6
159
kg Steel pipe
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Functional kg
unit
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. Specific heat 490 J/(kg·K)
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
Density 7 850 kg/m³
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten steel
is usually further processed before being extruded into circular pipes. Common uses
Piles, pipes, structural profiles
Steel pipes are often used in pile foundations, plumbing and as Process name
Steel pipe (custom)
columns (usually filled with concrete).
Input-output sector
Iron and Steel Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5583906307
160
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
42.9
4.6% Road Transport MJ/kg
78.1
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
61 58 78.1
3.5
5.3% Coal mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.6 3.1 3.5
161
kg Steel sheet corrugated
Steel is a ferrous metal and is an alloy of iron and carbon, as well as Category Metals
METALS
potential other elements. It has a very high tensile strength. Steel has Type Steel
been used in the construction industry for over a century. Functional kg
unit
The core material for making steel is iron, which is found in iron ore. Specific heat 490 J/(kg·K)
Iron is extracted from iron ore in blast furnaces through the smelting
Density 7 850 kg/m³
process, while controlling for the content of carbon. The molten steel
is usually further processed before being cast into sheet. These steel Common uses
Roofing, cladding, separations,
sheets are then corrugated using roll forming. The corrugated steel permanent formwork
sheets are finally galvanised by applying a coat of zinc crystals on
Process name
their surface to significantly improve their resistance to corrosion. Steel sheet corrugated (custom)
Input-output sector
Corrugated steel sheets are widely used in the construction industry, Iron and Steel Manufacturing
mainly as roofing, cladding, separations and permanent formwork.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5584b06f9b
162
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
79.6
4.9% Hot rolling, steel/RER U/AusSD MJ/kg
U
73.4
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
49.4 93 73.4
Process IO Hybrid
5.1 5 5.5
163
kg Asphalt
also be used, which is a naturally occurring bitumen. Bitumen is used Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
as a binder and generally represents around 5% of the asphalt mix. Density 2 649 kg/m³
Typical aggregates used are crushed rock, sand or gravel and these Common uses
Roads, carparks, pathways, roofs
make up approximately 95% of the volume of asphalt. The maximum
Process name
aggregate size is generally 10 mm. Polymers and other additives
Asphalt, standard mix, 5.5% virgin
are often added to control the properties of asphalt. Due to its high bitumen, at plant/AU U
viscosity, asphalt is heated prior to being mixed with the aggregate Input-output sector
materials. Petroleum and Coal Product
Manufacturing
164
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
4.2
12.9% Oil and gas extraction MJ/kg
2.9
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.9 1.4 2.9
Bitumen, at refinery/RER U/
0.2
9.4%
AusSD U kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.079 0.2 0.2
165
m3 Cellulose-cement block
cement, and sand. The cellulose is often sourced from waste products, Type Blocks
such as sawdust or wood chips, but other cellulose products may be Functional m³
used. Sand is used to maximise the load bearing capacity of the mix unit
and minimise water ingress. Portland cement or other cementitious Specific heat 1 171 J/(kg·K)
material is often used as a binder. Density 1 000 kg/m³
Cellulose-cement blocks can be used for wall construction as well as Common uses
External walls, internal walls,
in landscaping. The cellulose-cement mix can also be used to produce landscaping
bricks and panels. The blocks have a higher R-value compared
Process name
to traditional solid masonry blocks. They are also lighter, and can Cellulose-cement block
be nailed or screwed into. While cellulose-cement blocks have an Input-output sector
equivalent lifespan to traditional solid masonry blocks, sealing or Other Wood Product Manufacturing
166
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
17.9% Road Transport
MJ/m³
3 805
10.9% Electricity Generation MJ/m³
3 344
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
529 4 578 3 344
345
6.5% Road Transport
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
182 203 345
167
m3 Hempcrete block
Hempcrete is made of the inner woody core of the hemp plant (hemp Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
shives) mixed with a lime-based binder and water. The lime-based Type Blocks
binder typically consists of either natural hydraulic lime or hydrated Functional m³
lime. Hydrated lime is made from pure limestone and sets through unit
the absorption of carbon dioxide as part of the carbonation process. Specific heat 1 600 J/(kg·K)
Hempcrete has low compressive strength, but high acoustic and Density 340 kg/m³
thermal insulation properties, and is fire resitant.
Common uses
External walls, internal walls, floors,
Hempcrete blocks are a non-loadbearing block used for external or roofs
internal walls, providing thermal insulation. They can also be used to
Process name
provide additional insulation to roofs and floors when combined with Hempcrete
a building’s structural system.. Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/22896602
168
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
19.3% Road Transport
MJ/m³
6 319
11.4% Sawmill Product Manufacturing MJ/m³
76 976
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
70058 8443 76976
Process IO Hybrid
189 374 434
169
kg Magnesium oxide board
manufactured from magnesium oxide and reinforced with multiple Type Boards
layers of glass fibre mesh. The manufacturing process combines Functional kg
magnesium and oxygen with pressure and heat to create magnesium unit
oxide (MgO). After being ground into powder, it gets mixed with water, Specific heat 874 J/(kg·K)
chloride, sulfate and wood dust, and perlite. Magnesium oxide board Density 778 kg/m³
is fire resistant, water resistant, mould resistant, insect resistant, and
Common uses
highly durable. External cladding, internal wall
lining, internal ceiling lining
The boards are availble in various lengths, widths (generally 900 and
Process name
1 200 mm), and thicknesses (generally 6, 9, 10 and 12 mm). They can Magnesium oxide board
be used for indoor and outdoor applications for commercial and non- Input-output sector
commercial purposes, including for ceiling linings, roof construction, Other Non-Metallic Mineral Product
Manufacturing
floor construction, wall cladding, internal partitions and linings. They
Further information
are often used as an alternative to gypsum and Portland cement
[Link]
based products, such as plasterboard for internal linings.
170
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
13.6% Road Transport
MJ/kg
25.2
7.3% Magnesium oxide, at plant/RER MJ/kg
U/AusSD U
9.8%
Tanned Leather, Dressed
Fur and Leather Product WATER
Manufacturing
27.9
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
5.5 27.2 27.9
Process IO Hybrid
1 2.9 2.3
171
m2 Strawboard - 50 mm
straw fibres. The manufacturing process involves compressing the Type Boards
straw fibres under heat and pressure to release lignins in the straw Functional m²
that act as a natural binder for the straw fibres. The compressed straw unit
core is lined with a kraft paper liner on both sides using PVA glue. The Specific heat 1 050 J/(kg·K)
boards are 100% biodegradable at the end of their useful life Density 370 kg/m³
While the boards are available in various lengths and thicknesses, Common uses
Internal walls, roof, ceilings, floors
they are most commonly available as 50 mm thick. Strawboard can
Process name
be used for internal walls, or as part of a panelised roof, ceiling, wall or
Strawboard, 50mm
floor system for commercial, industrial and residential applications.
Input-output sector
The boards can be finished in a range of coatings, including paint, Other Wood Product Manufacturing
wallpaper, cement sheet, plywood, and steel sheet.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/22896623
172
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
19.5% Road Transport
MJ/m²
259
11.9% Sawmill Product Manufacturing MJ/m²
396
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
106 340 396
15.1
11.1% Road Transport
kgCO2e/m²
Process IO Hybrid
1.8 15 15.1
173
m² Nylon carpet
Carpet is a common flooring material, widely used for residential and Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
Further information
Nylon carpet is generally cheaper than wool alternatives. It is stain [Link]/10.26188/5da5521a352db
resistant and holds its colour well. High durability and toughness
make it ideal for use in high-traffic areas.
174
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/m²
465
8.4% Thermoforming, with MJ/m²
calendering/RER U/AusSD U
1 149
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
572 745 1 149
Thermoforming, with
31.2
9.9%
calendering/RER U/AusSD U kgCO2e/m²
Process IO Hybrid
14.6 41.3 31.2
175
m² Wool carpet
Carpet is a common flooring material, widely used for residential and Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
Further information
Wool carpet is generally more expensive than nylon alternatives. It is [Link]/10.26188/5da55236c5619
often blended with nylon to reduce cost of production and increase
durability and toughness. Wool is easy to maintain and is naturally
stain resistant, although is highly absorbent making it more prone to
stains from spillages.
176
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/m²
360
8.8% Road Transport MJ/m²
1 343
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
637 3 131 1 343
Thermoforming, with
41
7.5%
calendering/RER U/AusSD U kgCO2e/m²
Process IO Hybrid
26.5 57.5 41
177
kg Silicone
consisting of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms. Depending on the Type Other polymers
production process, it can take the form of a liquid, gel, elastomer or Functional kg
resin. It is widely used for plumbing applications, due to its adhesive unit
properties, ability to repel water, flexibility, stability in high/low Specific heat 1 460 J/(kg·K)
temperatures and antimicrobial properties. Density 960 kg/m³
Silicone is derived from silicon, which is extracted from quartz, sand Common uses
Sealant, adhesive, electrical
or other sources. To produce silicone, the base material (silicon) goes insulation, fittings, coatings
through several chemical and distillation processes.
Process name
Silicone product, at plant/RER U/
In construction, silicone is used as a sealant, adhesive or electrical AusSD U
insulation amongst other uses. It is also widely used in manufacturing, Input-output sector
for production of gaskets, moulds, coatings, caulks, household goods Polymer Product Manufacturing
178
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
8.7% Polymer Product Manufacturing
MJ/kg
224
5.6% Road Transport MJ/kg
589
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
260 389 589
Process IO Hybrid
3.2 21.6 13.8
179
no. Solar hot water system
Solar hot water systems are used as an alternative to more Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
conventional electric or gas storage systems. They use energy from Type Other
the sun to heat water that is used for a range of purposes within Functional no.
buildings. unit
Common uses
The system consists of two flat plate collectors, a storage tank, and Water heating
associated plumbing and electrical components, suitable for a one-
Process name
family dwelling. The water is pumped from the storage tank to the Solar system, flat plate collector,
one-family house, hot water/CH/I U/
collectors, where it is passed through thin tubes to be heated by AusSD U
direct solar radiation. Heated water is then stored in the storage tank
Input-output sector
until it is needed. Domestic Appliance Manufacturing
Further information
The flat plate collectors consist of an insulated steel absorber plate, [Link]/10.26188/5da557a8720ed
encased in an aluminium frame and toughened glass. The storage
tank is manufactured from steel and aluminium alloy and is insulated
with polyurethane foam.
180
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/no.
24 537
4.1% Road Transport MJ/no.
30 097
L/no.
Process IO Hybrid
20 472 17 539 30 097
1 863
1.9% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/no.
Process IO Hybrid
1 799 1 388 1 863
181
kg Straw bale
Straw has been used as a building material for centuries for thatch Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
roofing and also mixed with earth for cob walls, and wattle and daub Type Other
walls. Straw is the springy tubular stalk of grasses such as wheat and Functional kg
rice that are high in tensile strength. It is not hay, which is used for unit
feeding livestock and includes the grain head. Straw is composed Specific heat 1 000 J/(kg·K)
of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignins, and silica. Different grasses have Density 112.9 kg/m³
slightly different qualities: rice straw, for example, has a significant
Common uses
amount of silica which adds density and resists decomposition. External walls
Process name
Straw bale walls are rendered and are resistant to fire, pests and
Straw, from wheat, central east,
decay. Straw bales are typically 900 mm long × 450 mm wide × 350 NSW, at farm/AU U
to 400 mm high, and weigh 16 to 20kg. Larger bales are also available Input-output sector
which can be used for large structures and require mechanical lifting. Other Agriculture
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/22896632
182
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
3.1
7.9% Electricity Generation MJ/kg
113
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.72 117 113
Process IO Hybrid
0.038 0.3 0.29
183
kg Water
Water is used in significant quantities for construction activities, site Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
Process name
Tap water, at user, Australia/AU U
Input-output sector
Water Supply, Sewerage and
Drainage Services
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da558d1e3aa6
184
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
1.9% Construction Services
MJ/kg
0.017
1.4% Water Supply, Sewerage and MJ/kg
Drainage Services
1.02
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1 0.27 1.02
Process IO Hybrid
0.0009 0.0011 0.0013
185
kg Wood glue (PVA)
Polyvinyl acetate (PVA), also known as wood glue, is clear drying, non- Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
toxic, water-based adhesive commonly used as a binding agent for Type Adhesive
timber, paper, cloth and other natural fibres. It provides a flexible and Functional kg
strong bond that dries quickly at room temperature. unit
Specific heat 1 546 J/(kg·K)
There are different grades of PVA glue, used for different purposes.
Density 1 191 kg/m³
‘White glue’ or ‘craft glue’ is used for interior applications only. ‘Yellow
glue’ or ‘carpenters glue’ is water-resistant, but not suitable for full Common uses
Adhesive, sealer, primer, filler
exterior use. There are also exterior grade, fully waterproof variations,
Process name
that are suitable for not-structural exterior purposes. These are
Vinyl acetate, at plant/RER U/AusSD
generally slower drying, and cure at a lower temperature. U
Input-output sector
In addition to being used as a wood binding agent, PVA can also be Basic Chemical Manufacturing
used as a sealer, primer and filler.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da558f73d913
186
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
106
4.5% Road Transport MJ/kg
171
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
104 84.1 171
5.4
3.0% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3 10.6 5.4
187
kg Solvent-based paint
Paint is used to protect surfaces from moisture, UV and wear. It can Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
protective coating for timber, metals, plastics and plaster products. Type Paint
There are two main types of paint: water-based paint (including Functional kg
waterborne acrylics, and acrylic latex paints) and solvent-based paint unit
188
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
3.5% Road Transport
MJ/kg
124
1.0% Wholesale Trade MJ/kg
197
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
68.2 159 197
6.3
1.8% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3.2 8.8 6.3
189
kg Water-based paint
Paint is used to protect surfaces from moisture, UV and wear. It can Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
protective coating for timber, metals, plastics and plaster products. Type Paint
There are two main types of paint: water-based paint (including Functional kg
waterborne acrylics, and acrylic latex paints) and solvent-based paint unit
190
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
111
4.2% Road Transport MJ/kg
206
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
65.1 171 206
6.8
2.3% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3 9.5 6.8
191
kg Wallpaper
Wallpaper is a decorative wall finish that gained popularity as early as Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
the 16th Century. There are two main types of wallpaper - woven and Type Paper
non-woven. Both include a decorative colour or print on the front and Functional kg
an adhesive paste to fix it to the wall. unit
Specific heat 1 336 J/(kg·K)
Woven wallpapers are typically made from fabric, or heavy cotton,
Density 920 kg/m³
which is coated (often with an acrylic or polyvinyl coating). Non-
woven wallpaper is made from paper, natural fibres, or synthetic Common uses
Interior decoration
materials. A backing adhesive is either applied manually, or included
Process name
as a precoated layer. The backing paste is typically made from starch,
Kraft paper, bleached, at plant/RER
wheat-derived, or a vinyl-based adhesive. Patterns are printed using U/AusSD U
a variety of printing techniques depending on the aesthetic style, and Input-output sector
backing material used. Paper Stationery and Other
Converted Paper Product
Manufacturing
Wallpaper is predominantly used for decorative purposes. It varies
Further information
significantly in cost, depending on the production quality and [Link]/10.26188/5da558bf3c7d7
materials used.
192
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
11.4% Road Transport
MJ/kg
Paper Stationery and Other
263
10.8% Converted Paper Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
Process IO Hybrid
106 669 448
16
5.7% Road Transport
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.5 29.2 16
193
kg Natural rubber
Rubber is a highly elastic polymer (elastomer) that can be obtained Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
its original shape and size. In addition to this, it has good insulative Specific heat 2 010 J/(kg·K)
qualities and adheres well to itself and other materials. Density 1 100 kg/m³
Natural rubber is harvested in the form of latex from the sap of rubber Common uses
Expansion joints, window and
trees, which is refined and converted into rubber. Variations in quality building seals, flooring, fittings
can be observed in natural rubber, due to the geographical area,
Process name
weather and soil conditions. Natural rubber based sealing, at
plant/DE U/AusSD U
In comparison with natural rubber, synthetic rubber is generally Input-output sector
tolerant to a broader range of temperatures, is resistant to oil and Natural Rubber Product
Manufacturing
grease, and ages well against weathering. Natural rubber is favoured
Further information
for its high performance and low cost, which is not directly tied to the [Link]/10.26188/5da555f8c2b02
price of petroleum.
194
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
0.7% Road Transport
MJ/kg
75.2
0.5% Other Agriculture MJ/kg
Electricity Transmission,
0.5% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation Process IO Hybrid
83.4 30.1 75.2
Process IO Hybrid
63.4 34.7 92.1
2.5
1.2% Oil and gas extraction
kgCO2e/kg
Electricity Transmission,
1.1% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation
Process IO Hybrid
2.4 1.8 2.5
195
kg Synthetic rubber
Rubber is a highly elastic polymer (elastomer) that can be obtained Category Miscellaneous
MISCELLANEOUS
its original shape and size. In addition to this, it has good insulative Specific heat 2 010 J/(kg·K)
qualities and adheres well to itself and other materials. Density 1 100 kg/m³
There are many different types of synthetic rubber. Most are Common uses
Expansion joints, window and
synthesised from petroleum by-products. Some are produced with building seals, flooring, fittings
distinctive properties or qualities for specific products.
Process name
Synthetic rubber, at plant/RER U/
In comparison with natural rubber, synthetic rubber is generally AusSD U
tolerant to a broader range of temperatures, is resistant to oil and Input-output sector
grease, and ages well against weathering. Natural rubber is favoured Polymer Product Manufacturing
for its high performance and low cost, which is not directly tied to the Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da558867e249
price of petroleum.
196
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
92.8
6.4% Extrusion, plastic pipes/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
111
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
84.3 46.1 111
Process IO Hybrid
3.6 2.6 3.7
197
kg High-density polyethylene (HDPE) film
Polyethylene (PE) is the most common plastic and is a thermoplastic Category Plastics
PLASTICS
polymer. It has low strength and rigidity but high impact strength and Type High Density
Polyethylene
ductility and low friction. It is highly waterproof.
Functional kg
PE is produced by polymerising ethylene monomers using different unit
catalysts (typically metal chlorides or metal oxides). Different Specific heat 1 555 J/(kg·K)
densities can be obtained with different properties. Multiple additives Density 940 kg/m³
are also used to obtain different grades and properties of PE. PE is
Common uses
thermoformed into moulds or extruded. Geomembranes
Process name
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) has improved strength and HDPE, extruded film (custom)
durability compared to LDPE. HDPE films are usually used as
Input-output sector
geomembranes. Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5551da9cb9
198
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
147
2.9% Road Transport MJ/kg
172
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
63 132 172
6.4
2.4% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3.3 7.3 6.4
199
kg High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe
Polyethylene (PE) is the most common plastic and is a thermoplastic Category Plastics
PLASTICS
polymer. It has low strength and rigidity but high impact strength and Type High Density
Polyethylene
ductility and low friction. It is highly waterproof.
Functional kg
PE is produced by polymerising ethylene monomers using different unit
catalysts (typically metal chlorides or metal oxides). Different Specific heat 1 555 J/(kg·K)
densities can be obtained with different properties. Multiple additives Density 940 kg/m³
are also used to obtain different grades and properties of PE. PE is
Common uses
thermoformed into moulds or extruded. High-pressure pipes
Process name
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) has improved strength and HDPE, extruded pipe (custom)
durability. HDPE pipes are usually used for high pressure systems and
Input-output sector
are typically larger than LDPE pipes. Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5552ee9ccf
200
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
135
2.7% Road Transport MJ/kg
130
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
38.1 111 130
5.6
2.4% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3.1 6.2 5.6
201
kg Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film
Polyethylene (PE) is the most common plastic and is a thermoplastic Category Plastics
PLASTICS
polymer. It has low strength and rigidity but high impact strength and Type Low Density
Polyethylene
ductility and low friction. It is highly waterproof.
Functional kg
PE is produced by polymerising ethylene monomers using different unit
catalysts (typically metal chlorides or metal oxides). Different Specific heat 1 555 J/(kg·K)
densities can be obtained with different properties. Multiple additives Density 910 kg/m³
are also used to obtain different grades and properties of PE. PE is
Common uses
thermoformed into moulds or extruded. Vapour barrier, geomembrane,
general purpose membrane
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is cheaper than HDPE. LDPE films Process name
are usually used as vapour barriers, geomembranes and as general LDPE, extruded film (custom)
purpose membranes on site. Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55582e7c62
202
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
136
5.8% Extrusion, plastic film/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
122
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
57.9 79.2 122
Process IO Hybrid
4.8 4.4 6.4
203
kg Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) pipe
Polyethylene (PE) is the most common plastic and is a thermoplastic Category Plastics
PLASTICS
polymer. It has low strength and rigidity buy high impact strength and Type Low Density
Polyethylene
ductility and low friction. It is highly waterproof.
Functional kg
PE is produced by polymerising ethylene monomers using different unit
catalysts (typically metal chlorides or metal oxides). Different Specific heat 1 555 J/(kg·K)
densities can be obtained with different properties. Multiple additives Density 910 kg/m³
are also used to obtain different grades and properties of PE. PE is
Common uses
thermoformed into moulds or extruded. Low-pressure pipes
Process name
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is generally cheaper than HDPE. LDPE, extruded pipe (custom)
LDPE pipes are usually used for lower pressure systems and are
Input-output sector
typically smaller than HDPE pipes. Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5559330846
204
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
130
4.6% Extrusion, plastic pipes/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
89.6
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
33 69 89.6
Process IO Hybrid
4.6 3.8 6
205
kg Nylon 66
Nylon 66 (nylon 6-6, nylon 6/6, or nylon 6,6) is a polyamide made from Category Plastics
PLASTICS
two monomers with six carbon atoms each. It has high mechanical Type Nylon
strength, rigidity, good stability under heat and chemical resistance. Functional kg
unit
Nylon 66 is synthesised by polycondensating hexamethylenediamine Specific heat 1 464 J/(kg·K)
and adipic acid. The same amount of each monomere are mixed with
Density 1 140 kg/m³
water and crystallised to produce a nylon salt. The salt is polymerised
and nylon 66 is formed. It can be extruded, granulated or spun into Common uses
Membrane, rods, tubes, screws,
fibres. washers, spacers, rope
Process name
Nylon 66 is mostly used as a sheet in construction, but also in rods, Nylon 66, at plant/RER U/AusSD U
tubes, screws, washers, ropes and spacers.
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55609d0f6f
206
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
21.2% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
MJ/kg
335
4.8% Electricity Generation MJ/kg
910
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
663 253 910
22.2
8.7% Electricity Generation
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
8.3 14 22.2
207
kg Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
mechanical strength. It is tough, resistant to impacts, offers a good Type Other polymers
surface quality and is a good electrical insulator. Functional kg
unit
ABS is derived from three polymers, namely acrylonitrile, butadiene Specific heat 1 423 J/(kg·K)
and styrene, mostly through emulsion. It can be moulded or extruded.
Density 1 070 kg/m³
ABS is generally used for pipes and fittings and sometimes for general Common uses
purpose panels within the construction industry. Pipes, fittings, general purpose
panels
Process name
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
copolymer, ABS, at plant/RER U/
AusSD U
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55178a8ecb
208
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
23.0% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
MJ/kg
270
5.2% Electricity Generation MJ/kg
359
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
155 221 359
16
10.5% Electricity Generation
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
4.6 12.3 16
209
kg Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE)
with high corrosion resistance, self-cleaning properties, ultraviolet Type Other polymers
resistance and resistant to a broad range of temperatures. Functional kg
unit
ETFE is produced by polymerising tetrafluoroethylene using water. Specific heat 1 950 J/(kg·K)
ETFE is then extruded to the required thickness and welded into large
Density 1 700 kg/m³
sheets. Due to its high resistance to the outdoor environment, ETFE is
used in tensile architecture as a membrane and can also be used in Common uses
Tensile architecture, inflatable
inflated cushions. cushions
Process name
Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE),
film
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da554446a581
210
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
12 063
7.1% Road Transport MJ/kg
22 606
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
462 26 324 22 606
798
3.9% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
93 1 460 798
211
kg Glass reinforced plastic (GRP)
including glass fibres to reinforce a plastic, typically a polyethylene Type Other polymers
(PE) resin. GRP is strong, lightweight, weather-resistant and heat Functional kg
resistant. It is also commonly referred to as glass reinforced polyester, unit
glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP), fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) or Specific heat 700 J/(kg·K)
fibre reinforced polymer (FRP). Density 1 350 kg/m³
GRP is made by laying the glass fibres in two or three dimensions and Common uses
Roofing, storage tanks, door and
embedding them into the plastic resin. This is typically done through window surrounds, piping, cladding
moulding. GRP is thus available in multiple shapes, including flat
Process name
sheets and curved objects. Glass fibre reinforced plastic,
polyester resin, hand lay-up, at
plant/RER U/AusSD U
GRP can be used for roofing, storage tanks, door and window
surrounds, piping and cladding. Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55484429d7
212
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
299
8.4% Glass fibre, at plant/RER U/ MJ/kg
AusSD U
529
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
116 465 529
Process IO Hybrid
5.9 25.8 18.8
213
kg Linoleum
Linoleum is a composite material used for floor covering or underlay Category Plastics
PLASTICS
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da555a381ad3
214
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
5.9% Road Transport
MJ/kg
58.2
3.2% Wholesale Trade MJ/kg
195
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
149 106 195
4.4
2.2% Oil and gas extraction
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.1 5.9 4.4
215
kg Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a strong material and the grade used for Type Other polymers
construction is most often transparent. Polycarbonate has high Functional kg
mechanical strength and can withstand temperature fluctuations unit
Process name
Polycarbonate is mostly used in construction to replace glass in Polycarbonate, at plant/RER U/
glazing, for skylights, flat or curved glazing and for sound walls. AusSD U
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556966a461
216
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
17.9% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
MJ/kg
190
2.2% Polymer Product Manufacturing MJ/kg
265
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
142 133 265
14
1.9% Polymer Product Manufacturing
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
8.2 7.4 14
217
kg Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
is light-weight has a good tensile strength, flexural strength and UV Type Other polymers
tolerance. It is commonly known as plexiglass, acrylic or acrylic glass. Functional kg
unit
PMMA is made by polymerising monomers of methyl-methacrylate. It Specific heat 1 500 J/(kg·K)
is moulded or extruded into its final shape, which is often flat sheets.
Density 1 190 kg/m³
Common additives include acrylate monomers for heat processing,
butyl acrylate for impact strength, dyes for colouring and ultraviolet Common uses
Skylights, flat glazing, sound walls,
resistance and fillers to reduce cost. bathtubs
Process name
PMMA is most often used in construction as a substitute to glass. Polymethyl methacrylate, sheet, at
plant/RER U/AusSD U
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556a82dd9d
218
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
16.5% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
MJ/kg
230
3.6% Electricity Generation MJ/kg
215
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
96 129 215
15.4
6.4% Electricity Generation
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
8.7 7.2 15.4
219
kg Polypropylene (PP) sheet
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556bad2165
220
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
159
5.1% Petroleum and Coal Product MJ/kg
Manufacturing
186
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
59.4 153 186
Process IO Hybrid
3.8 8.5 7.4
221
kg Polyurethane (PU) flexible foam
Polyurethane (PU) is a polymer with a low density, low thermal Category Plastics
PLASTICS
In construction, flexible PU foam consists of thin flexible foam rolls Process name
Polyurethane, flexible foam, at
that are typically used as floor underlay. plant/RER U/AusSD U
Input-output sector
Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556dde71cd
222
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
127
19.3% Toluene diisocyanate, at plant/ MJ/kg
RER U/AusSD U
443
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
370 82.6 443
Process IO Hybrid
5.3 4.6 7.7
223
kg Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film
thermal and electrical insulation properties. PVC can be rigid (see Type Polyvinyl
Chloride
uPVC) or soft. PVC is the third most produced plastic, globally.
Functional kg
PVC is produced by polymerising vinyl chloride monomers, mostly unit
through suspension polymerisation, followed by emulsion and bulk Specific heat 950 J/(kg·K)
polymerisation. This generates heat and requires cooling and water. Density 1 390 kg/m³
The resulting sludge is filtered, centrifuged, and dried, before being
Common uses
converted to pellets. These can be molten for moulding or extrusion. Electrical cable insulation, flooring,
cladding
Multiple additives can be added to PVC to enhance its properties,
most importantly phthalate to soften the PVC. Process name
PVC, calendered (custom)
PVC film is used in construction for flooring and electrical cable Input-output sector
insulation. Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5571457bf1
224
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
30.5% Basic Chemical Manufacturing
MJ/kg
190
5.9% Thermoforming, with MJ/kg
calendering/RER U/AusSD U
758
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
592 197 758
Thermoforming, with
11.2
9.5%
calendering/RER U/AusSD U kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
3.4 10.9 11.2
225
kg Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC)
through suspension polymerisation, followed by emulsion and bulk Specific heat 950 J/(kg·K)
polymerisation. This generates heat and requires cooling and water. Density 1 390 kg/m³
The resulting sludge is filtered, centrifuged, and dried, before being
Common uses
converted to pellets. These can be molten for moulding or extrusion. Window frames, doors, pipes,
gutters
Multiple additives can be added to PVC to enhance its properties,
notably chloride to enhance its resistance to ultraviolet light. Process name
PVC, extruded pipe (custom)
uPVC is widely used in the construction industry. Its main uses include Input-output sector
window frames, doors, pipes, and gutters. Polymer Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da558ad914dc
226
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
76.3
1.6% Wholesale Trade MJ/kg
561
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
505 68.5 561
4.2
1.9% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
2.7 3.8 4.2
227
kg Adobe
Adobe is a mixture of clay, sand, and silt with good plastic qualities Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
that dries to a hard uniform mass. Water and small amounts of straw
Type Brick
or other fibrous material are mixed with a clay soil, which is then
shaped into bricks in simple moulds. The addition of fibre is to prevent Functional kg
unit
the bricks from cracking during the curing process. Depending on
Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
the intended use, the bricks range from 80 to 130 mm thick, 250 to
Density 1 200 kg/m³
300 mm wide, and 350 to 500 mm long. Before they can be used, the
bricks must be air cured. Common uses
Cladding, loadbearing walls,
landscaping, decorative features
Adobe can be used for external and internal walls, providing good
insulating qualities. The bricks are laid in a mortar of the same Process name
Adobe
material, then finished with a coat of adobe or with lime or cement
plaster. Input-output sector
Ceramic Product Manufacturing
Given that they are typically air dried, adobe has the advantage of a Further information
[Link]
lower energy demand for drying than clay bricks, which are typically
kiln dried.
228
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
3.5
4.6% Road Transport MJ/kg
2.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.2 2.1 2.7
Process IO Hybrid
0.21 0.32 0.3
229
kg Clay brick
Clay bricks are widely used in the construction industry for their Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
strength, affordability and ease of construction. They have high
Type Brick
durability, weather and fire resistance, compressive strength, and
good thermal/sound insulative properties. The strength of a brick Functional kg
unit
wall is also largely dependent on the quality of the mortar and
Specific heat 835 J/(kg·K)
workmanship.
Density 2 403 kg/m³
Bricks are made from clay, which is an abundant resource across
Common uses
most of the world. Clay is prepared and mixed to ensure consistent Cladding, loadbearing walls,
particle size and mineral content. The clay is then extruded, soft landscaping, decorative features
moulded or dry pressed into brick shaped forms. The bricks are dried Process name
Brick, at plant/RER U/AusSD U
in a temperature and humidity controlled environment, and fired
in a high temperature oven/kiln. Coatings, glazing or textures are Input-output sector
Ceramic Product Manufacturing
applied to give the brick its final appearance. The colour of a brick
Further information
largely depends on the mineral content of the clay and final firing
[Link]/10.26188/5da552ad307a9
temperature.
230
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
3.5
5.0% Road Transport MJ/kg
1.8
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.49 1.9 1.8
Process IO Hybrid
0.25 0.29 0.32
231
kg Gravel
Gravel is a course aggregate, comprised of hard, durable and weather Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
resistant rocks. It has excellent drainage properties, and is commonly
Type Other
used in construction. There are different sizes and grades of gravel
available, ranging from small smooth rounded rock, to large angular Functional kg
unit
crushed rock.
Specific heat 840 J/(kg·K)
Gravel is produced in quarries or extracted from gravel pits. It is found Density 1 840 kg/m³
naturally, in the form of eroded rock and minerals, or created by
Common uses
crushing rock such as limestone, basalt or sandstone. Landscaping, bulk fill, material
additive
It is commonly used for construction and landscaping purposes, Process name
including: as a base layer for walkways and roads, as bulk fill, as a Gravel, crushed, at mine/CH U/
AusSD U
drainage substrate, or as an aggregate for concrete.
Input-output sector
Non Metallic Mineral Mining
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da554c7241e7
232
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
0.48
3.1% Diesel, burned in building MJ/kg
machine/GLO U/AusSD U
1.9
L/kg
Electricity Transmission,
0.5% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation
Process IO Hybrid
1.4 1.1 1.9
0.036
3.3% Coal mining
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.013 0.046 0.036
233
kg Rammed earth
Rammed earth is constructed by ramming a mixture of sand, gravel, Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
silt and a small amount of clay into place between formwork.
Type Other
Traditionally, a wooden pole was used to ‘ram’ the earth mixture
between the formwork to compress it. Modern methods use a Functional kg
unit
mechanical ram. Stabilised rammed earth includes a small amount
Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
of cement (typically 5–10%) to increase strength and durability. While
Density 2 000 kg/m³
rammed earth provides good thermal mass, it is not a good insulator.
Common uses
Rammed earth is typically used for loadbearing internal and external Cladding, loadbearing walls,
landscaping, decorative features
walls and landscaping elements. Rammed earth walls are usually
coated with an air-permeable sealer to increase the life of the material. Process name
Rammed earth
Most rammed earth walls are typically 300 mm thick for external walls
and 200 - 300 mm thick for internal walls. Reinforcement is rarely Input-output sector
Ceramic Product Manufacturing
required, but they may be required for more complex structures.
Further information
[Link]
234
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
8.7% Road Transport
MJ/kg
3.3
6.8% Other Non-Metallic Mineral MJ/kg
Product Manufacturing
4.1
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.2 3.7 4.1
0.26
6.6% Oil and gas extraction
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.062 0.577 0.26
235
kg Recycled aggregate
Recycled aggregate is a cheap and readily available product made Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
from recycled construction materials. It is strong and durable with
Type Other
excellent drainage properties.
Functional kg
It is typically comprised of concrete, stone, brick, ceramics, mortar and unit
other common construction materials. It is produced using the waste Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
materials collected from the demolition of building and infrastructure Density 1 320 kg/m³
projects. Impurities such as metal, wood and timber are removed via
Common uses
magnets and other sorting techniques. The remaining materials are Landscaping, bulk fill, material
additive
sorted by size, and crushed into a coarse aggregate.
Process name
Recycled aggregate is becoming increasingly popular as a Recycled aggregate, at plant/AU U
replacement for natural aggregates. It is commonly used for: bulk fill, Input-output sector
road construction, gravel, and as an aggregate in concrete. When used Waste Collection, Treatment and
Disposal Services
in concrete, it is typically combined with fly ash or other additives to
Further information
ensure improved strength and reliability. [Link]/10.26188/5da557263ad43
236
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
1.6% Road Transport
MJ/kg
0.11
1.3% Auxiliary Finance and Insurance MJ/kg
Services
3.6%
Employment, Travel Agency
and Other Administrative WATER
Services
0.1
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.038 0.12 0.1
Sand is comprised of small particles of quartz (silica), feldspar and Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
calcium carbonate from various forms of life that have been eroded
Type Other
down over thousands of years. It is strong, durable, chemically inert
and has excellent drainage characteristics. Functional kg
unit
It is commonly extracted through open pit mining and is available in Specific heat 830 J/(kg·K)
many different grades and levels of purity. Due to the extended period Density 1 500 kg/m³
of time required to create sand, it is considered a non-renewable
Common uses
resource. Landscaping, concrete slabs,
material additive, external finishes
Sand can be used as a substrate for footings, pathways, and concrete Process name
slabs. It is also used as an additive in concrete, mortar, asphalt, and Sand, at mine/CH U/AusSD U
various exterior finishes. It is one of the primary materials used in the Input-output sector
production of silicon for various construction products. Non Metallic Mineral Mining
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5574945e6e
238
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
0.34
4.5% Diesel, burned in building MJ/kg
machine/GLO U/AusSD U
1.8
L/kg
Electricity Transmission,
0.4% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation
Process IO Hybrid
1.4 0.89 1.8
Process IO Hybrid
0.005 0.037 0.024
239
kg Sanitary ceramic
Sanitary ceramics are a high quality ceramic product that is durable, Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
water proof, stain and mould resistant. Materials used in sanitary
Type Other
ceramics are generally denser and less porous than other ceramic
products. Functional kg
unit
Sanitary ceramics are commonly made from silica, sand, feldspar and Specific heat 1 070 J/(kg·K)
clays such as kaolinite that are used to make china and porcelain. The Density 2 700 kg/m³
raw materials are pulverised into fine particles and mixed together,
Common uses
before being formed into the desired size and shape. The product Washbasins, toilets, bathroom
accessories, sanitary ware
is then dried, glazed with a waterproof coating and fired in a high
temperature oven/kiln. Process name
Sanitary ceramics, at regional
storage/CH U/AusSD U
Sanitary ceramics are commonly used for washbasins, toilets,
bathroom accessories and sanitary ware. They are generally more Input-output sector
Ceramic Product Manufacturing
expensive than other ceramic products, due to their high-quality
Further information
waterproof and stain resistant finish. [Link]/10.26188/5da5575bb1595
240
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
98.0
8.1% Road Transport MJ/kg
89.8
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
19.7 87.6 89.8
Process IO Hybrid
2.7 13.7 6.4
241
kg Dimension stone
Dimension stone is the common term used for finished blocks or slabs Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
of stone used in construction. There are a variety of rock types used
Type Stone
to create dimension stone, including: marble, granite, slate, travertine
and others. These have different properties, and can vary in strength, Functional kg
unit
hardness, durability, texture, colour, size and cost.
Specific heat 837 J/(kg·K)
Dimension stone is mined from quarries, using precision saws, Density 2 243 kg/m³
burners and blasting. Slabs are then graded, cut to size, and finished
Common uses
using a variety of techniques, including: sandblasting, polishing, Countertops, flooring, walling,
cladding, interior decorations
honing, and saw cutting; each technique providing a different finish
and texture. Resin can be used to fill imperfections in the stone. Process name
Natural stone plate, cut, at regional
storage/CH U/AusSD U
Dimension stones are commonly used for bathroom vanities,
countertops, flooring and cladding. Granite is used for external and Input-output sector
Non Metallic Mineral Mining
flooring applications due to its hardness, and ability to withstand
Further information
weathering. Marble and travertine is commonly used for benchtops [Link]/10.26188/5da553562c7fa
and interior applications.
242
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
16.3
3.1% Exploration and Mining Support MJ/kg
Services
16.5
L/kg
Electricity Transmission,
1.3% Distribution, On Selling and
Electricity Market Operation
Process IO Hybrid
5.4 26.5 16.5
Process IO Hybrid
0.73 1.1 1.3
243
kg Ceramic tile
Ceramic tiles are popular for their decorative, hard wearing, stain Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
resistant, and water resistant qualities. Glazed tiles provide a more
Type Tiles
water and stain resistant finish, while unglazed tiles have a rougher,
more natural appearance and texture. A surface coating is often Functional kg
unit
applied to unglazed tiles, to provided additional water proofing.
Specific heat 1 070 J/(kg·K)
Ceramic tiles are made from natural clays, feldspar, silica and other Density 2 900 kg/m³
materials. Clays and additives are sorted and pulverised to ensure a
Common uses
consistent texture and consistency. The mixture is then formed into Interior and exterior finishes,
bathrooms, kitchens, flooring,
tile shaped elements, dried, and fired in a high temperature oven/
walling
kiln. Glazing and surface treatments are applied for waterproofing,
Process name
and aesthetic purposes. Ceramic tiles, at regional storage/
CH U/AusSD U
Ceramic tiles are used for interior and exterior non-structural
Input-output sector
purposes including flooring, cladding and decorative elements. They Ceramic Product Manufacturing
are commonly used in kitchens, bathrooms and wet areas. Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5529e3a6be
244
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
18.9
4.7% Road Transport MJ/kg
5.5%
Sodium perborate,
tetrahydrate, powder, at plant/ WATER
RER S/AusSD U
15.2
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
7.6 11.5 15.2
Process IO Hybrid
0.96 1.8 1.3
245
kg Clay roof tile
Clay roof tiles, also known as terracotta tiles are a common roofing Category Sand, stone and
SAND, STONE AND CERAMICS
ceramics
option. They are durable, weather resistant, fire resistant, and have a
Type Tiles
high thermal mass compared with other roofing materials. Tiles are
interlocking, to ensure a consistent weatherproof roof covering, and Functional kg
unit
require ongoing maintenance to ensure they remain weatherproof.
Specific heat 800 J/(kg·K)
Tiles can be brittle, and crack easily if not handled/treated correctly.
Density 1 860 kg/m³
The manufacturing process for clay tiles is similar to the production
Common uses
of other ceramic products. Clay is prepared and mixed to ensure Roof cladding
consistent particle size and mineral content. The clay is then
Process name
moulded or extruded into tile shaped elements. These are dried in a Roof tile, at plant/RER U/AusSD U
temperature and humidity controlled environment, and fired in a high Input-output sector
temperature oven/kiln. Coatings or glazing can be applied to ensure Ceramic Product Manufacturing
the tiles are waterproof, or provide other construction or aesthetic Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da552bc24123
qualities. The colour of the tile largely depends on the mineral
content of the clay, the final firing temperature, or the coating/glazing
applied.
Clay roof tiles are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes,
including specific regional styles which are influenced by roof pitch,
weather conditions, availability of raw materials and aesthetic
qualities.
246
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/kg
7.5
6.9% Road Transport MJ/kg
4.7
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
0.51 5.5 4.7
Process IO Hybrid
0.39 0.86 0.61
247
kg Cork slab
Cork slab is manufactured from cork material obtained from the bark Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
layer of cork oak trees. Cork slab is often made as a by-product of Type Cork
wine stopper production or from recycled cork. It is often made by Functional kg
combining ground granulated cork with a binding agent. unit
Specific heat 2 000 J/(kg·K)
Cork slab is lightweight, rot resistant, fire resistant and termite
Density 120 kg/m³
resistant. It is available in a variety of thicknesses, from 6 mm and
used for a range of purposes, including floor and wall tiles, thermal Common uses
Insulation, floor tiles, wall tiles,
insulation, benchtops and exterior cladding. exterior cladding, floor finish,
benchtops
Cork slab products are typically available as rolls up to 25 m long, as Process name
600 or 900 mm wide sheets and 300 or 600 mm square tiles. Cork slab, at plant/RER U/AusSD U
Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55336dce12
248
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
25.1% Road Transport
MJ/kg
179
2.5% Polymer Product Manufacturing MJ/kg
199
L/kg
Process IO Hybrid
11.6 311 199
9.5
2.5% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/kg
Process IO Hybrid
1.8 13.8 9.5
249
m³ Hardwood
Timber comes in a wide range of varieties and sizes. It is used for Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
structural and non-structural purposes, and can vary significantly in Type Hardwood
density, grain texture, workability, usage and cost. It is lightweight, Functional m³
easy to handle and transport, and has a good strength to weight ratio. unit
It is typically divided into softwood varieties, such as Pine, Cypress Specific heat 1 255 J/(kg·K)
and Spruce and hardwood varieties such as Victorian Ash, Blackbutt Density 720 kg/m³
and Oak. The term hardwood and softwood is a botanical distinction,
Common uses
and not an indication of timber strength or density. The density of Beams, columns, framing, joinery,
timber is highly dependent on the species, varying from 120 kg/m³ to flooring, walling, furniture, cladding,
doors, windows
1 300 kg/m³ or higher.
Process name
Sawn timber, hardwood, planed, air
Hardwood is generally more dense and durable than softwood / kiln dried, u=10%, at plant/RER U/
varieties, with better longevity. Some hardwoods are naturally AusSD U
resistant to termites and pests and more fire resistant. It is commonly Input-output sector
Sawmill Product Manufacturing
used for high traffic areas, quality furnishings and interior joinery,
structural members, cladding and flooring. Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da554ea370a5
Commercial timber products are typically kiln, or air-dried. Kiln/oven
drying is done in a controlled environment over a relatively short
time period. It produces a uniformly dried, high quality product that
generally kills any fungi and insects in the wood. Air-drying is done
over extended periods of time, and does not require any fuel inputs. It
is cost effective, but needs to be carefully managed to reduce cracking
and ensure consistent drying.
250
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
45.9% Road Transport
MJ/m³
13 632
1.1% Wholesale Trade MJ/m³
19 110
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
2 091 35 222 19 110
944
1.6% Construction Services
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
387 885 944
251
m³ Cross laminated timber (CLT)
Cross laminated timber (CLT) is a manufactured timber product, Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
similar to plywood. Solid timber members are bonded together, Type Manufactured
timber product
with the grain alternating by 90 degrees for each lamination. CLT is
much thicker than traditional plywood and has superior structural Functional m³
unit
capabilities. It has excellent dimensional stability, strength and
Specific heat 1 300 J/(kg·K)
rigidity.
Density 490 kg/m³
CLT is fabricated using a range of different timber varieties. It is
Common uses
typically bonded together using melamine urea formaldehyde, Flooring and walling system,
structural panels, timber sheets
polyurethane or other adhesives.
Process name
CLT has different structural capabilities when compared with Glued laminated timber, indoor use,
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
conventional timber, and acts as a sheet product, rather than
a framing product. It can be used as a complete floor, wall or roof Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
system, without the need for additional supporting members.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55346af5dc
252
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
20.3% Road Transport
MJ/m³
Sawn timber, softwood, raw, air
9 607
6.5% dried, u=20%, at plant/RER U/ MJ/m³
AusSD U
8 608
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 615 13 513 8 608
645
9.6% Road Transport
kgCO2e/m³
Glued laminated timber or glulam is a structurally engineered timber Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
product produced from large strips of graded timber that are bonded Type Manufactured
timber product
together. Glulam has a high degree of dimensional stability, and a
high strength to weight ratio compared to steel. Functional m³
unit
Timber members are individually selected for lamination, to Specific heat 1 300 J/(kg·K)
maximise strength and performance. Because of this, glulam can Density 430 kg/m³
be manufactured with increased strength in particular areas, to
Common uses
compensate for areas of high stress in a structure. Synthetic resin Structural members, columns,
rafters, trusses, curved beams
glues are typically used as a binding agent, commonly in conjunction
with finger joints to increase joint performance. Process name
Glued laminated timber, indoor use,
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
Glulam can be used for long structural members, which exceed the
capabilities of standard timber. It is also used for columns, rafters, Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
trusses and curved beams.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da554a55f5a5
254
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
24.2% Road Transport
MJ/m³
29 996
2.4% Polymer Product Manufacturing MJ/m³
35 813
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 615 50 219 35 813
1 718
2.7% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
377 2 225 1 718
255
m³ Laminated veneer lumber (LVL)
Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) is a manufactured timber product Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
made from thin veneers of timber bonded together under heat and Type Manufactured
timber product
pressure. Unlike plywood, the grain is oriented in the same direction.
LVL is stronger and can span further than traditional timber members. Functional m³
unit
It has excellent dimensional stability, reliability and strength.
Specific heat 1 800 J/(kg·K)
LVL can be made from smaller varieties of trees, usually unsuitable Density 510 kg/m³
for large structural members. Veneers are bonded together using
Common uses
bonding agents that cure at high temperatures, such as phenol Long spanning structural members,
lintels, beams, purlins, trusses
formaldehyde.
Process name
LVL members are excellent for long spanning structural purposes, and Glued laminated timber, indoor use,
at plant/RER U/AusSD U
are commonly used for lintels, beams, purlins and trusses.
Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da55571d9d31
256
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
23.8% Road Transport
MJ/m³
17 479
2.4% Polymer Product Manufacturing MJ/m³
18 025
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
3 615 28 770 18 025
1 059
2.1% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
377 1 275 1 059
257
m³ Medium density fibreboard (MDF)
Medium density fibreboard (MDF), is a manufactured timber product Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
made from reconstituted wood fibres. It is denser than particleboard Type Manufactured
timber product
or plywood, and has a smooth finish. MDF is commonly covered
with timber veneer, vinyl, or a melamine paper coating, providing Functional m³
unit
increased durability, water resistance and aesthetic qualities. MDF
Specific heat 1 300 J/(kg·K)
is cost-effective when compared with other sheet materials, and is
Density 684 kg/m³
typically stronger than particleboard.
Common uses
MDF is created by combining residual wood fibres with a resin binder Interior joinery, walling, flooring
and wax, and pressing at a high temperature. Urea-formaldehyde is
Process name
commonly used for non-waterproof applications, and melamine urea Medium density fibreboard, at
plant/RER U/AusSD U
formaldehyde for increased water resistance.
Input-output sector
MDF is commonly used for joinery and interior purposes. Depending Other Wood Product Manufacturing
on the resin used, it can have a moderate resistance to water, and is Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da555b3e3bf9
generally not suited to exterior applications.
258
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/m³
15 016
9.9% Road Transport MJ/m³
8 471
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
2 726 10 700 8 471
899
5.4% Road Transport
kgCO2e/m³
Oriented strand board (OSB) is a manufactured timber product Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
similar to particleboard. It is made from timber fibres that are bonded Type Manufactured
timber product
together in a particular orientation. The orientation varies across the
inner and outer layers, to provide increased dimensional stability. It Functional m³
unit
has superior structural capabilities compared with particleboard, and
Specific heat 1 880 J/(kg·K)
is more cost-effective than plywood. Sheets can be manufactured
Density 607 kg/m³
to have a high strength and rigidity, depending on the required
application. Common uses
Timber sheets, walling, roofing
Strands of timber are bonded together using thermal compression.
Process name
Adhesive resins such as urea-formaldehyde (non-waterproof) or Oriented strand board, at plant/RER
U/AusSD U
melamine-formaldehyde (water resistant) are used to bond the
strands together, often combined with wax. OSB sheets can utilise Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
timber offcuts and have very low timber wastage.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5561c22195
OSB sheets are commonly used as an alternative to plywood sheet
products.
260
TOP THREE INPUTS
MJ/m³
14 422
13.8% Road Transport MJ/m³
17 997
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
9 791 14 286 17 997
751
8.7% Road Transport
kgCO2e/m³
product made from reconstituted wood particles. Unlike OSB, Type Manufactured
timber product
the particles are randomly orientated, and the board has uniform
properties in each direction. Due to this, it is a relatively stable product, Functional m³
unit
and offers a cheaper alternative to other timber sheet products.
Specific heat 1 300 J/(kg·K)
It is typically weaker than plywood and highly susceptible to water
Density 680 kg/m³
damage, warping and expansion, and is generally not situatable for
outdoor applications. Common uses
Interior joinery, walling, flooring
Small wood particles are layered with a formaldehyde-based resin,
Process name
or melamine-based resin (for increased water resistance). Other Particle board, indoor use, at plant/
RER U/AusSD U
additives are commonly included to increase resistance to insect
damage, fire, and water. Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
Particleboard is commonly used for low cost joinery and dry area Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5562dbfbf9
construction. It is often painted, or covered with a timber veneer
or melamine coating to increase water resistance, durability and
aesthetic qualities.
262
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
18.0% Road Transport
MJ/m³
12 717
Paraffin, at plant/RER U/AusSD
4.3%
U
MJ/m³
10 720
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
1 860 15 833 10 720
696
2.1% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
337 702 696
263
m³ Plywood
Plywood is a manufactured timber product made from thin veneers Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
of timber bonded together under heat and pressure. Typically the Type Manufactured
timber product
outer layers (face timbers) are a higher grade with superior aesthetic
qualities. Plywood is a high-strength, high quality sheet material, with Functional m³
unit
good dimensional stability and resistance to cracking and warping.
Specific heat 1 215 J/(kg·K)
Veneers are ‘peeled’ off a timber log to a precise thickness, and Density 625 kg/m³
laminated together with other veneers, typically at different
Common uses
orientations to provide increased strength and stability. They are Timber sheets, interior joinery,
walling, flooring, formwork,
bonded with urea formaldehyde or a water-resistant glue such as
furniture, cladding
phenol formaldehyde.
Process name
Plywood, indoor use, at plant/RER
Plywood is available in a variety of grades, and timber species. These U/AusSD U
include high grade interior plywood, formply, exterior/marine grade
Input-output sector
plywood, and structural plywood. Other Wood Product Manufacturing
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da556748c57f
264
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
24.4% Road Transport
MJ/m³
63 691
2.4% Wholesale Trade MJ/m³
69 363
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
6 175 107 697 69 363
3 680
2.7% Wholesale Trade
kgCO2e/m³
Process IO Hybrid
1 029 4 772 3 680
265
m² Structural insulated panel (SIP)
Structural insulated panels, often referred to as SIPs, are a composite Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
product containing an outer skin and inner core. As their name Type Other timber
suggest, they are typically used as a structural element for low-rise Functional m²
buildings. unit
Density 139 kg/m³
Outer layers of oriented strand board (OSB) are glued to an insulating
core made from expanded polystyrene (EPS). The core gives the Common uses
Floor structure, external walls,
panels good thermal properties while the outer skins provide a internal walls, roof structure
durable, aesthetic finish. Alternative core materials, such as extruded Process name
polystyrene (XPS) or rigid polyurethane (PU) foam and outer skin SIPS
materials, such as plywood or fibre cement sheet can also be used. Input-output sector
Other Wood Product Manufacturing
SIPs can be used as wall or roof panels and are mainly used in Further information
domestic construction. They are very lightweight and thus easy to [Link]/10.26188/5da5586fec593
move. The panels come in a range of thicknesses ranging from 100
to 300 mm. Typical panel dimensions are 300, 600, 900 and 1 200
mm wide and 2.4, 2.7 and 3 m long. Openings for windows and doors
are cut out of panels during manufacture. Panels are connected
onsite using splines with cavities cut into the core for electrical and
plumbing services.
266
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
8.0% Road Transport
MJ/m²
2 624
4.7% Sawmill Product Manufacturing MJ/m²
4 219
L/m²
Process IO Hybrid
3 105 1 451 4 219
135
3.6% Sawmill Product Manufacturing
kgCO2e/m²
Process IO Hybrid
110 64.3 135
267
m³ Softwood
Timber comes in a wide range of varieties and sizes. It is used for Category Timber products
TIMBER PRODUCTS
structural and non-structural purposes, and can vary significantly in Type Softwood
density, grain texture, workability, usage and cost. It is lightweight, Functional m³
easy to handle and transport, and has a good strength to weight ratio. unit
It is typically divided into softwood varieties, such as Pine, Cypress Specific heat 1 380 J/(kg·K)
and Spruce and hardwood varieties such as Victorian Ash, Blackbutt Density 510 kg/m³
and Oak. The term hardwood and softwood is a botanical distinction,
Common uses
and not an indication of timber strength or density. The density of Beams, columns, framing, joinery,
timber is highly dependent on the species, varying from 120 kg/m³ to flooring, walling, furniture, cladding,
doors, windows
1 300 kg/m³ or higher.
Process name
Sawn timber, softwood, planed, air
Softwood generally has a lower density and better workability than dried, at plant/RER U/AusSD U
hardwood varieties. It is comparably cheap due to the fast growing
Input-output sector
nature of many softwood plantation varieties. It is widely used for Sawmill Product Manufacturing
timber framing purposes, feature walls, door and windows.
Further information
[Link]/10.26188/5da5578416cc9
Commercial timber products are typically kiln, or air-dried. Kiln/oven
drying is done in a controlled environment over a relatively short
time period. It produces a uniformly dried, high quality product that
generally kills any fungi and insects in the wood. Air-drying is done
over extended periods of time, and does not require any fuel inputs. It
is cost effective, but needs to be carefully managed to reduce cracking
and ensure consistent drying.
268
TOP THREE INPUTS
ENERGY
45.0% Road Transport
MJ/m³
9 392
1.0% Wholesale Trade MJ/m³
13 091
L/m³
Process IO Hybrid
2 678 23 796 13 091
Process IO Hybrid
181 598 549
269
6
REFERENCES AND
APPENDICES
References
ABS (2016) 4610.0 2014-15 Water Account, Australia. Canberra, Australia: Australian Bureau of
Statistics. [Link]
F100A84BC5C0973BCA2581E00010808B?opendocument
ABS (2017a) 5209.0.55.001 Australian National Accounts: Input-Output Tables, 2014-15. Canberra,
Australia: Australian Bureau of Statistics.
ABS (2017b) 5215.0.55.001 - Australian National Accounts: Input-Output Tables (Product Details), 2014-15.
Canberra, Australia: Australian Bureau of Statistics.
ABS (2018) 5209.0.55.001 - Australian National Accounts: Input-Output Tables, 2014-15. Canberra,
Australia: Australian Bureau of Statistics. [Link]
/5209.0.55.001Main+Features12014-15?OpenDocument
Born, P. (1996) Input-output analysis: input of energy, CO2 and work to produce goods. Journal of Policy
Modeling, 18, 217-221. [Link]/10.1016/0161-8938(95)00069-0
Crawford, R.H. (2005) Validation of the use of input-output data for embodied energy analysis of
the Australian construction industry. Journal of Construction Research, 6(1), 71-90. doi.
org/10.1142/S1609945105000250
Crawford, R.H. (2008) Validation of a hybrid life cycle inventory analysis method. Journal of
Environmental Management, 88(3), 496-506. [Link]/10.1016/[Link].2007.03.024
Crawford, R.H., Bontinck, P.-A. & Stephan, A. (2018a) Establishing a comprehensive database of
construction material environmental flow coefficients for Australia. Paper presented at the
Engaging Architectural Science: Meeting the Challenges of Higher Density: 52nd International
Conference of the Architectural Science Association 2018, Melbourne, Australia.
Crawford, R.H., Bontinck, P.-A., Stephan, A., Wiedmann, T. & Yu, M. (2018b) Hybrid life cycle inventory
methods – a review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 172, 1273-1288. [Link]/10.1016/j.
jclepro.2017.10.176
Crawford, R.H., Stephan, A. & Prideaux, F. (2022) The EPiC database: Hybrid embodied environmental
flow coefficients for construction materials. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 180,
106058. [Link]/10.1016/[Link].2021.106058
Department of Industry, Innovation and Science (2016) Australian energy statistics update. Canberra,
Australia. [Link]
[Link]
Department of the Environment and Energy (2015) National Greenhouse Gas Inventory - Kyoto Protocol
classifications. Canberra, Australia. [Link]
272
EN 15643-5 (2017) Sustainability of Construction Works - Sustainability Assessment of Buildings and
Civil Engineering Works - Part 5: Framework on Specific Principles and Requirement for Civil
Engineering Works. European Committee for Standardisation.
Frischknecht, R., Jungbluth, N., Althaus, H.-J., Doka, G., Dones, R., Heck, T., . . . Spielmann, M. (2005) The
ecoinvent database: Overview and methodological framework. International Journal of Life
Cycle Assessment, 10, 3-9. [Link]/10.1065/lca2004.10.181.1
Hendrickson, C.T., Horvath, A., Joshi, S. & Lave, L.B. (1998) Economic input-output models for
environmental life cycle assessment. Environmental Science and Technology, 32(7),
184A-191A. [Link]/10.1021/es983471i
International Energy Agency and the United Nations Environment Programme (2018) Global Status
Report 2018: towards a zero-emission, efficient and resilient buildings and construction sector.
ISO 14025 (2006) Environmental labels and declarations — Type III environmental declarations —
Principles and procedures. International Organisation for Standardisation.
ISO 14040 (2006) Environmental management - life cycle assessment - principles and framework.
International Organisation for Standardisation.
Lenzen, M. & Crawford, R.H. (2009) The path exchange method for hybrid LCA. Environmental Science &
Technology, 43(21), 8251-8256. [Link]/10.1021/es902090z
Lenzen, M. & Dey, C.J. (2000) Truncation error in embodied energy analyses of basic iron and steel
products. Energy, 25(6), 577-585. [Link]/10.1016/S0360-5442(99)00088-2
Norris, G. (2001) Empirically derived distributions of life cycle emissions, in B.P. Weidema and A.M.
Nielsen (eds). In Input/Output analysis: shortcuts to life cycle data? (pp. 52-56). Copenhagen,
Denmark: Environmental Project No. 581, Ministry for Environment and Energy.
Roodman, D.M. (1995) A building revolution: how ecology and health concerns are transforming
construction / David Malin Roodman and Nicholas Lenssen; Jane A. Peterson (Ed.).
Washington, DC: Worldwatch Institute.
Stephan, A. (2018) Walkthrough the Path Exchange Hybrid Analysis Graphical User Interface. doi.
org/10.6084/[Link].5687773
Stephan, A., Crawford, R.H. & Bontinck, P.-A. (2019) A model for streamlining and automating path
exchange hybrid life cycle assessment. The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment,
24(2), 237-252. doi:10.1007/s11367-018-1521-1
273
Appendices
274
25 Textile Manufacturing
26 Tanned Leather, Dressed Fur and Leather Product Manufacturing
27 Textile Product Manufacturing
28 Knitted Product Manufacturing
29 Clothing Manufacturing
30 Footwear Manufacturing
31 Sawmill Product Manufacturing
32 Other Wood Product Manufacturing
33 Pulp, Paper and Paperboard Manufacturing
34 Paper Stationery and Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing
35 Printing (including the reproduction of recorded media)
36 Petroleum and Coal Product Manufacturing
37 Human Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Product Manufacturing
38 Veterinary Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Product Manufacturing
39 Basic Chemical Manufacturing
40 Cleaning Compounds and Toiletry Preparation Manufacturing
41 Polymer Product Manufacturing
42 Natural Rubber Product Manufacturing
43 Glass and Glass Product Manufacturing
44 Ceramic Product Manufacturing
45 Cement, Lime and Ready-Mixed Concrete Manufacturing
46 Plaster and Concrete Product Manufacturing
47 Other Non-Metallic Mineral Product Manufacturing
48 Iron and Steel Manufacturing
49 Basic Non-Ferrous Metal Manufacturing
50 Forged Iron and Steel Product Manufacturing
51 Structural Metal Product Manufacturing
52 Metal Containers and Other Sheet Metal Product manufacturing
53 Other Fabricated Metal Product manufacturing
54 Motor Vehicles and Parts; Other Transport Equipment manufacturing
55 Ships and Boat Manufacturing
56 Railway Rolling Stock Manufacturing
275
57 Aircraft Manufacturing
58 Professional, Scientific, Computer and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing
59 Electrical Equipment Manufacturing
60 Domestic Appliance Manufacturing
61 Specialised and other Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing
62 Furniture Manufacturing
63 Other Manufactured Products
64 Electricity Generation
65 Electricity Transmission, Distribution, On Selling and Electricity Market Operation
66 Gas Supply
67 Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Services
68 Waste Collection, Treatment and Disposal Services
69 Residential Building Construction
70 Non-Residential Building Construction
71 Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
72 Construction Services
73 Wholesale Trade
74 Retail Trade
75 Accommodation
76 Food and Beverage Services
77 Road Transport
78 Rail Transport
79 Water, Pipeline and Other Transport
80 Air and Space Transport
81 Postal and Courier Pick-up and Delivery Service
82 Transport Support services and storage
83 Publishing (except Internet and Music Publishing)
84 Motion Picture and Sound Recording
85 Broadcasting (except Internet)
86 Internet Service Providers, Internet Publishing, Websearch Portals & Data Processing
87 Telecommunication Services
88 Library and Other Information Services
276
89 Finance
90 Insurance and Superannuation Funds
91 Auxiliary Finance and Insurance Services
92 Rental and Hiring Services (except Real Estate)
93 Ownership of Dwellings
94 Non-Residential Property Operators and Real Estate Services
95 Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
96 Computer Systems Design and Related Services
97 Employment, Travel Agency and Other Administrative Services
98 Building Cleaning, Pest Control and Other Support Services
99 Public Administration and Regulatory Services
100 Defence
101 Public Order and Safety
102 Primary and Secondary Education Services (incl Pre-Schools and Special Schools)
103 Technical, Vocational & Tertiary Education Services (incl undergraduate & postgraduate)
104 Arts, Sports, Adult and Other Education Services (incl community education)
105 Health Care Services
106 Residential Care and Social Assistance Services
107 Heritage, Creative and Performing Arts
108 Sports and Recreation
109 Gambling
110 Automotive Repair and Maintenance
111 Other Repair and Maintenance
112 Personal Services
113 Other Services
114 Capital - Biological resources
115 Capital - Construction
116 Capital - Machinery and weapons
117 Capital - IP Products
Source: Input-Output Industry/Product Groups (IOIG/IOPG) are based on ABS (2017a). Additional
information about goods or services produced by each group is available as Input-Output Product
Categories (IOPC) from ABS (2017b).
277
Appendix B: Total environmental flow requirements for
economic sectors
278
Sector Energy Water Greenhouse gas emissions
number (MJ/A$) (L/A$) (kg CO2e/A$)
279
Sector Energy Water Greenhouse gas emissions
number (MJ/A$) (L/A$) (kg CO2e/A$)
280
Sector Energy Water Greenhouse gas emissions
number (MJ/A$) (L/A$) (kg CO2e/A$)
281
Appendix C: Total environmental flow requirements of inputs to
main construction sectors
282
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
26 Tanned Leather, Dressed Fur and Leather Product Manufacturing 0.0027707 0.0174885 0.0003328
34 Paper Stationery and Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing 0.0358786 0.0517695 0.0022618
52 Metal Containers and Other Sheet Metal Product manufacturing 0.0412651 0.0354225 0.0027069
283
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
54 Motor Vehicles and Parts; Other Transport Equipment manufacturing 0.0095718 0.0120555 0.0006375
58 Professional, Scientific, Computer and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing 0.0109168 0.0119717 0.0007063
61 Specialised and other Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing 0.0139677 0.0152615 0.0009190
65 Electricity Transmission, Distribution, On Selling and Electricity Market Operation 0.0039271 0.0057575 0.0002443
81 Postal and Courier Pick-up and Delivery Service 0.0171183 0.0146495 0.0013242
284
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
92 Rental and Hiring Services (except Real Estate) 0.0585431 0.1034641 0.0047873
94 Non-Residential Property Operators and Real Estate Services 0.0288659 0.0542319 0.0021709
97 Employment, Travel Agency and Other Administrative Services 0.0131038 0.0293824 0.0009131
98 Building Cleaning, Pest Control and Other Support Services 0.0100651 0.0244221 0.0007021
102 Primary and Secondary Education Services (incl Pre-Schools and Special Schools) 0.0000018 0.0000028 0.0000001
Technical, Vocational & Tertiary Education Services (incl undergraduate &
103 postgraduate) 0.0016684 0.0027816 0.0001134
104 Arts, Sports, Adult and Other Education Services (incl community education) 0.0003477 0.0005354 0.0000251
106 Residential Care and Social Assistance Services 0.0000656 0.0001434 0.0000045
285
70 Non-Residential Building Construction
26 Tanned Leather, Dressed Fur and Leather Product Manufacturing 0.0009219 0.0058189 0.0001107
286
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
34 Paper Stationery and Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing 0.0119079 0.0171820 0.0007507
52 Metal Containers and Other Sheet Metal Product manufacturing 0.0223201 0.0191598 0.0014641
54 Motor Vehicles and Parts; Other Transport Equipment manufacturing 0.0116787 0.0147091 0.0007778
287
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
58 Professional, Scientific, Computer and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing 0.0153180 0.0167982 0.0009911
61 Specialised and other Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing 0.0294103 0.0321347 0.0019350
65 Electricity Transmission, Distribution, On Selling and Electricity Market Operation 0.0096651 0.0141698 0.0006013
81 Postal and Courier Pick-up and Delivery Service 0.0092651 0.0079289 0.0007167
288
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
92 Rental and Hiring Services (except Real Estate) 0.0511099 0.0903273 0.0041794
94 Non-Residential Property Operators and Real Estate Services 0.0106668 0.0200403 0.0008022
97 Employment, Travel Agency and Other Administrative Services 0.0074504 0.0167059 0.0005192
98 Building Cleaning, Pest Control and Other Support Services 0.0086661 0.0210275 0.0006045
102 Primary and Secondary Education Services (incl Pre-Schools and Special Schools) Negligible Negligible Negligible
Technical, Vocational & Tertiary Education Services (incl undergraduate &
103 postgraduate) 0.0010766 0.0017949 0.0000732
104 Arts, Sports, Adult and Other Education Services (incl community education) 0.0004293 0.0006609 0.0000310
106 Residential Care and Social Assistance Services 0.0000726 0.0001585 0.0000050
289
71 Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
26 Tanned Leather, Dressed Fur and Leather Product Manufacturing 0.0016641 0.0105038 0.0001999
290
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
34 Paper Stationery and Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing 0.0277997 0.0401123 0.0017525
52 Metal Containers and Other Sheet Metal Product manufacturing 0.0217554 0.0186751 0.0014271
54 Motor Vehicles and Parts; Other Transport Equipment manufacturing 0.0146842 0.0184946 0.0009780
291
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
58 Professional, Scientific, Computer and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing 0.0160889 0.0176436 0.0010409
61 Specialised and other Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing 0.0278210 0.0303980 0.0018305
65 Electricity Transmission, Distribution, On Selling and Electricity Market Operation 0.0068307 0.0100144 0.0004250
81 Postal and Courier Pick-up and Delivery Service 0.0101478 0.0086843 0.0007850
292
Total Environmental Flow Requirement
92 Rental and Hiring Services (except Real Estate) 0.0963159 0.1702206 0.0078761
94 Non-Residential Property Operators and Real Estate Services 0.0053527 0.0100564 0.0004026
97 Employment, Travel Agency and Other Administrative Services 0.0305001 0.0683898 0.0021254
98 Building Cleaning, Pest Control and Other Support Services 0.0103930 0.0252177 0.0007250
102 Primary and Secondary Education Services (incl Pre-Schools and Special Schools) Negligible Negligible Negligible
Technical, Vocational & Tertiary Education Services (incl undergraduate &
103 postgraduate) 0.0022212 0.0037032 0.0001509
104 Arts, Sports, Adult and Other Education Services (incl community education) 0.0005501 0.0008469 0.0000397
106 Residential Care and Social Assistance Services 0.0001884 0.0004116 0.0000130
293
Improving Environmental Performance in Construction
The EPiC Database contains environmental flow coefficients for a broad range of
construction materials and products. Developed using complete, transparent and
consistent methods, the EPiC coefficients can be used to assess the embodied
energy, water and greenhouse gas emissions of construction projects, assisting
with design, construction and whole of life decision-making.