Recycling Concrete-An Overview of Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

Synopsis: This paper consists of an overview of the development of techniques for recycling concrete. Demolition, processing and the recycling of the resulting materials are often analyzed 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 analyzing the whole disposal/ supply-chain, including the substituted material, that the best effects of recycling can be achieved. Overviews of methods for environmental evaluations as well as economic considerations are presented. Integrated demolition waste management in Kosovo and an analysis of the potential market in Hong Kong are presented as examples of the worldwide market for recycled materials. Issues regarding the handling of polluted materials will be discussed from a practical point of view. Moreover, some aspects to consider regarding future demolition when producing new concrete products are presented.