Cost-effective recycling of end-of-life concrete for high-grade applications
Themes: Materials, Chemistry, bio- & process technology
Early stage commercial environment application
A TRL is a measure to indicate the matureness of a developing technology. When an innovative idea is discovered it is often not directly suitable for application. Usually such novel idea is subjected to further experimentation, testing and prototyping before it can be implemented. The image below shows how to read TRL’s to categorise the innovative ideas.
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Why?
Recycling of end-of-life concrete reduces environmental impact, dependency on raw materials, concrete price fluctuations, and landfill demand. This technology enables the final step, separating the 0-4 mm fine fraction, in an economically viable and sustainable way.
How?
A Heating-Air classification System (HAS) simultaneously heats, grinds and separates the concrete in fluidized-bed-like conditions. This weakens the bond between silica and cement paste, allowing the production of clean sand and cement clinker-type products.
When?
This technology completes earlier TU Delft recycling innovations (i.e. ADR). The project will upscale the lab scale facility to an economically viable 3000 kg/hour system, using its output to construct 100% recycled concrete buildings at The Green Village.
Dr. Francesco Di Maio