Research from the University of Liverpool revealed that recycled rubble can replace up to 50% of quarried material in pre-cast concrete, without reducing strength.
” This project was dedicated to unlocking the potential of this waste. “
– Margaret Cobbold, Onyx Environmental Trust
The findings highlight the potential for the commercial use of demolition waste, which accounts for 15% of the UK's total waste output.
Although the research showed that 100% replacement of aggregates had a detrimental affect on strength, partial replacement was successful, and reduced production costs. A recycled component in concrete could also reduce the risk of sulphur attack, it was found
Practicality
The two-year study was funded by 125,000 from the Onyx Environmental Trust, under the Landfill Tax Credit scheme, by The Flintshire Community Trust and AD Waste Ltd.
Aimed at finding new ways to divert demolition waste from landfill and to reduce the quarrying of aggregates, the program also looked into the practicality and economies of the new market.
The university set up a network of demolition contractors, waste collection and disposal authorities and manufacturers of pre-cast concrete to help understand the factors involved.
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Margaret Cobbold, general manager of the Onyx Environmental Trust, said: “This project was dedicated to unlocking the potential of this waste.”
Dr Marios Soutos, of Liverpool University, added: “We are very pleased with the successful outcome of this project in showing the technical, economic and environmental benefits of using recycled demolition and construction waste in new concrete construction.”
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