Concrete is one of the most produced and utilized materials in the world. In fact, wherever you go, you see concrete infrastructures, objects, etc. From driveways, walls, statues, and more, you commonly see concrete. In addition, there are also materials that are mixed with concrete too. Given the fact that the concrete and cement industry produce tons and tons of concrete materials, is it possible to recycle and reuse concrete? This is what we will find out in this article.
Several construction projects like what Cypress concrete works typically start the process in the demolition of concrete, whether it is a driveway, foundation, sidewalks, or other concrete structures. This process provides them a huge size of heavy, dense materials. Because of these wastes, recycling concrete has become popular in the construction industry as it reduces costs, efforts, and environmental degradation. Typically, the recycling process involves pulverizing or crushing the concrete rubble near the building site or the demolition. And because there are different ways of recycling the concrete, choosing the best method is significant. It depends on several factors like the shape and size of the concrete, costs, and others.
How Do You Recycle Concrete?
Generally, it is recycled by using a piece of industrial crushing equipment with large impactors and jaws. Once the concrete is broken, another impactor is used to screen the concrete and removes dirt from it, where large and small aggregates are separated. Other equipment and processes can also be used such as separators, water flotation, and magnets that are able to remove elements from the concrete materials.
What are the Benefits of Concrete Recycling?
One of the major benefits of recycling concrete is that it helps reduce and minimize construction waste as well as extend landfills’ life. There are tons and tons produced wastes from demolition, and the production needs the energy to work. By reducing production, we are also reducing energy consumption. Another advantage of concrete recycling lowers the costs for transportation of wastes and to landfills as well as fees that are involved. It is a great help to the company. Some companies are given points when they sue recycled concrete, as a result of the program provided by the federal or local government to encourage reducing carbon footprints. The last major benefit is that it creates employment that would not otherwise exist without the process of concrete recycling.
What are the Uses of Old Concrete?
Recycles concrete can be used in different infrastructures or be sued as new materials. The following are the uses of recycled concrete:
- Crushed concrete can be used as aggregates for mixing new concrete
- Concrete that is properly crushed and well-sorted can be used for landscaping mulch. They can even be used as a substitute for gravels and ground covers.
- Concrete in larger pieces are used for controlling streambank erosion
Conclusion
Recycling is generally known for its advantages and benefits. And since concrete is produced on a large scale and the industry produces a lot of concrete materials, it is fitting to reduce the production to minimize cost and energy use. In this way, construction becomes more sustainable.
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