SUSTAINABLE SELECTION AND APPLICATION OF PREFABRICATED BUILDING MATERIALS UNDER THE CARBON NEUTRALITY GOAL

Background and Purpose: Against the global pursuit of carbon neutrality, the construction industry is accelerating its low-carbon transition. Prefabricated buildings have become a key pathway to balance construction efficiency and environmental sustainability. This study aims to explore the sustainable selection and application of prefabricated building materials under the carbon neutrality goal and to establish a systematic framework for carbon footprint quantification and optimization. Methods: This research integrates carbon emission accounting methods with life cycle assessment (LCA) technologies to evaluate the environmental performance of prefabricated building materials. It analyzes low-carbon material options, including high-performance concrete, green steel, and bio-based renewable materials, and examines the application of composite materials in prefabricated systems. In addition, energy-saving design and thermal performance optimization of building enclosure structures are assessed in alignment with green building standards. Resource utilization technologies for construction waste recycling and material regeneration are also investigated. Results: The results demonstrate that optimized material selection and composite material application significantly reduce life cycle carbon emissions in prefabricated buildings. Enhanced thermal performance of enclosure structures further improves energy efficiency, while construction waste reuse contributes to effective resource conservation and emission reduction. Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive technical framework and practical roadmap for promoting sustainable prefabricated buildings, supporting the large-scale green and low-carbon transformation of the construction industry.