Recycling Concrete - An Overview of Development and Challenges

Title: Recycling Concrete - An Overview of Development and Challenges
Author(s): Lauritzen
Paper category : conference
Book title: International RILEM Conference on the Use of Recycled Materials in Building and Structures
Editor(s): E. Vázquez, Ch. F. Hendriks and G.M.T. Janssen
Print-ISBN: 2-912143-52-7
e-ISBN: 2912143756
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2004
Pages: 297 - 305
Total Pages: 9
Nb references: 19
Language: English

Abstract: This paper consists of an overview over the development of recycling of concrete and the
use of concrete with recycled materials. The overview and strategic management of
demolition waste is often missing when handling concrete demolition waste. The demolition,
processing and recycling of the materials are often analysed separately. "High quality"
recycling of concrete waste does not always correspond to production/use of the product with
the highest value, but rather the most feasible product in a specific project or region. It is by
analysing the whole disposal/ supply-chain including the substituted material, that best effects
of recycling can be achieved. Demolition is most often the first, and not the last phase of a
building’s life. There is almost always a building where a new one is to be built.
Environmental issues are a growing concern in the world. There are a number of ways to
include environmental issues when planning demolition and recycling activities. Overviews
of methods for environmental evaluations as well as economical considerations are presented
in the paper. The market for recycled materials in the world is commented, and integrated
demolition and waste management in Kosovo and an analysis of the potential market in Hong
Kong are presented as examples. Current challenges in the industry are how to control and
handle polluted material. These issues will be discussed from a practical point of view.
Moreover some aspects to consider with respect to future demolition when producing new
concrete products are presented.

Online publication: 2004-09-29
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00
doi: 10.1617/2912143756.034