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Circular economy potential for autoclaved aerated concrete
Author(s) -
Kreft Oliver
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
ce/papers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2509-7075
DOI - 10.1002/cepa.893
Subject(s) - demolition waste , reuse , demolition , waste management , environmental science , directive , production (economics) , authorization , circular economy , autoclaved aerated concrete , carbonization , business , engineering , civil engineering , adsorption , chemistry , computer science , ecology , computer security , organic chemistry , biology , economics , macroeconomics , programming language
Abstract In the present paper, a reuse strategy for autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) demolition waste into the ongoing production of AAC is described. The challenge is huge: The decisive factor for successful recycling is primarily the quality of the AAC recyclate. This must be carefully analyzed before the material is reintroduced into the production cycle. Since 2010, Xella has been investigating how and in what quantities residual AAC from demolished buildings or landfills can be recycled for producing new AAC. Around 10%–and even up to 15%, depending upon its quality–of the pure AAC from landfills can be recycled for new production. In this pilot study, we investigate the chemical and mineralogical composition of the supplied building waste. Among others, the study focuses on the analysis of heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), sulfate, and total organic carbon (TOC) contents. This activity is Xella's preparation for the European Waste Framework Directive, pursuant to which at least 70% of all construction and demolition waste (CDW) must be recycled after 2020. It must furthermore be expected that building material manufacturers will be faced with a take back obligation for building materials once this directive enters into effect.