Demolition Waste: Resource for Concrete Industry
摘要
Rapid urbanization has led to a surge in high-rise construction, necessitating the extensive use of non-renewable materials, while simultaneously resulting in the demolition of low-rise structures, generating substantial amounts of demolition waste (DW). Both processes contribute to environmental degradation, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable construction practices. This study explores the potential of utilizing DW as an alternative for natural coarse aggregate (NCA) in concrete production, addressing both resource conservation and waste management. Through a comprehensive evaluation of mechanical properties and microstructure analysis, the study identifies the optimum replacement level of NCA with DW. The findings reveal that up to 30% of NCA can be effectively replaced by DW without compromising the performance of concrete. This substitution not only reduces the demand for virgin materials but also diverts significant quantities of waste from landfills, alleviating environmental pollution and conserving landfill space. The study underscores the environmental and economic benefits of integrating DW into concrete production, offering a viable pathway toward more sustainable and resource-efficient construction practices.