Use of recycled construction and demolition materials in geotechnical applications: A review

Abstract

The proper use of natural resources is one of the fundamental pillars of sustainable development imposed on modern societies. A more effective and efficient use of natural resources, as well as the mitigation of environmental impacts induced by their extraction could be achieved if proper management and recycling policies of Construction and Demolition (C&D) wastes were implemented. The valorisation of wastes in the construction industry is needed and is a way toward sustainability. This paper provides a literature review on studies related to the valorisation of Construction and Demolition (C&D) materials in geotechnical engineering applications, with an emphasis on their use as recycled aggregates in base layers of roadway infrastructures and as filling material for geosynthetic reinforced structures. Specifications that should be followed when these materials are used in such projects are also summarised. With this review it is intended to promote the use of recycled C&D materials, showing that research carried out all over the world has demonstrated their good performance in general.