Recycling and Reuse of Building Materials From Construction and Demolition

Abstract

Urbanization is creating enormous pressure for the effective utilization of the existing land with demolition of old structures for new and modern structures. The debris produced in demolition of these structures are in large amount and disposal of this waste in sustainable manner is the biggest challenge being faced today and should be considered as a resource. With the increasing waste production and public concerns regarding the environment, it is desirable to recycle these materials. If suitably processed in appropriate industrial plants, these materials can be profitably used in concrete. This chapter highlights the composition of construction and demolition waste, the necessity for its recycling, and possibilities that can be implemented for its resourceful use, further focusing on current trends in this field by elaborating various ways to use these waste from laboratory research scale to commercially available technologies around the globe. The chapter concludes with future research directions and guidelines for sustainable use of these wastes.