Research Group Offers Returned Concrete Recycling Guidelines

The RMC Research & Education Foundation has released a new study entitled “Crushed Returned Concrete as Aggregates for New Concrete.”

The study is based on research performed at the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association’s (NRMCA) Research Laboratory in Silver Spring, Md. The report “evaluates the effects of the use of crushed concrete aggregate (CCA) on fresh and hardened concrete properties by comparing these properties to concretes containing virgin aggregates,” says a news release from the organization. “The report includes guidance for ready mixed concrete producers on a methodology for the appropriate use of crushed concrete aggregates (CCA) in concrete.”

The ready mixed concrete industry could save approximately $300 million annually through the use of crushed returned concrete as aggregates, according to the study. “Use of CCA supports sustainable construction initiatives and adds to the benefits that concrete can provide in this arena,” the NRMCA states.

“The call for increased recycling efforts for all industries is louder than ever,” says RMC Research & Education Foundation Chairman Dominique Calabrese. “The study’s findings show us how we can increase recycling, while saving on both materials and disposal costs. The construction community has an obligation to examine ways to contribute to national sustainability efforts, and the CCA report demonstrates another win-win way to become more green.”

Adds Foundation Executive Director Julie Garbini, “The CCA report shows how crushed returned concrete can be successfully reused in concrete for a variety of applications, while still meeting the needed performance requirements and producing a quality product. It will go a long way toward increasing the acceptance of CCA in concrete so that the industry can use this sustainable solution.”

The full text of the study can be downloaded from the Foundation’s Web site at www.rmc-foundation.org.