A Literature Review on the Use of Recycled Construction and Demolition Materials in Unbound Pavement Applications

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the biggest sectors of economic activity in the European Union, consuming more energy and natural resources than any other industrial activity. Additionally, construction and demolition (C&D) waste is the most common waste produced throughout the European Union. A more efficient and effective use of natural resources and the attenuation of environmental impacts provoked by their extraction could be accomplished if correct construction and demolition waste management and recycling policies were implemented. The use of recycled C&D waste in road pavement layers is a solution with economic and environmental benefits that has been widely studied in recent decades. This paper provides a literature review on the relevant engineering properties of different types of recycled aggregates coming from C&D waste, a comparison with the properties of natural aggregates, and how these recycled aggregates perform in the long-term when used in unbound pavement applications. An analysis of the current status of C&D waste generation and recovery practices in the European Union is also presented. The aim of this review is to further encourage the use of recycled materials coming from C&D waste, particularly in unbound pavement applications, since, in general, research conducted worldwide has proven their good performance in the short and long-term.