Scholarly record

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF RECYCLABILITY OF SELECTED BUILDING MATERIALS

Assoc. Prof. Dr. eng. Elzbieta Szafranko, J. A. Pawlowicz

Abstract

A complex ecological analysis of the building sector includes different aspects. When building constructions are scrutinized from the point of view of nature protection, it is advisable to consider the entire life cycle of a building structure. Among the most essential elements of an assessment is the possible recyclability of materials recovered after the demolition of a building. Striving towards a global reduction of the volume of waste, we are forced to implement such construction and technological solutions that employ the materials which can be reused. The materials that are nearly 100% recyclable are mostly natural ones, such as timber or aggregate. Obviously, other materials can be recycled as well. Some demolition materials can undergo simple processing, but some can also be recycled in a course of complex processing technologies. The principal conditions that must be satisfied to ensure recyclability of demolition materials is their proper segregation at a demolition site. Contaminated materials are difficult to recover. Certain building materials are more often recovered and their recycling is simple. Recycling methods depend on the specific character of materials. The aim of this article has been to analyze various building materials and their recyclability, including such questions as their popularity and efficiency of recycling.

Publication details

Back to publication list