Is Recycled Concrete Environmentally Friendly

1. Is Recycled Concrete Environmentally Friendly? Humans naturally seek things that offer long-lasting benefits, regardless of cost or accessibility. This inclination is evident in the widespread preference for concrete in construction over other options. Concrete undeniably provides durability and value where utilized. However, it's crucial to consider the environmental impact of this choice. Focusing solely on the advantages of concrete without acknowledging its potential harm to the environment may lead to unintended consequences. Therefore, one must strike a balance between enjoying the longevity of concrete and being mindful of its environmental effects. But what about the recycled ones? Is concrete recycling even a thing? Concrete Recycling: An Essential Practice Concrete is extensively used in construction across the United States. While this widespread use has its advantages, we need to consider what happens with it afterwards. Crushed concrete, for example, where does it go, and what does it do to our environment? Especially in situations like demolition. Moreover, concrete is indeed recyclable, even if it might not be the first thing you think of when thinking of recyclable materials. However, recycling concrete involves a bit more effort. The process usually includes pulverizing or crushing the concrete using industrial tools equipped with impactors and jaws. Further, you might be curious about the uses of recycled concrete. It can serve various purposes, like gravel, aggregate, and paving materials. Additionally, these include: ●Walkways' permeable paving ●Underground utility trenches' bed foundation ●Aggregate for new concrete ●The base for asphalt paving ●Erosion streambank control ●Landscaping mulch ●Fill for wire gabions

2. ●Materials for oceanic reef habitat While recycling concrete might sound like recycling any other material, it offers significant benefits, such as: ●Saving construction waste ●Reducing contractors' tipping fees for construction waste disposal ●Keeping construction waste out of landfills ●Lowering the cost of transporting construction waste for disposal ●Ultimately contributing to environmental conservation. Concrete Recycling Process When concrete reaches the end of its life, it can undergo recycling through a straightforward process. Harvesting To start, concrete rubble is collected from torn-down buildings, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, roads, interstates, highways, airport runways, foundations, and more. After gathering the rubble, the remaining steps take place on-site, off-site or at a concrete recycling facility. Crushing Once the concrete is gathered, it undergoes crushing using various methods. Common crushing methods include portable, mobile, or stationary jaw crushers, impact crushers, or cone crushers. Both jaw crushers and impact crushers can be used for initial crushing. Occasionally, a secondary crushing process, typically carried out with a cone crusher, is necessary to further adjust the size of the rubble. Screening Since concrete aggregate is often mixed with other materials such as clay, plastic, dirt, asphalt pavement, metal, and wood chips, it must undergo screening using scalping and deck screeners to separate from these materials. Moreover, recycled concrete usually undergoes multiple screening processes, depending on the concrete source and the intended use of the final product. Cleaning The last step in the concrete recycling process is cleaning. Before recycled concrete can be transformed into new concrete, any remaining residue from removed materials must be cleaned off. This process involves hand-picking, magnetic separation, or air and water separators.

3. More Benefits of Recycling Concrete Reduced Dependency on Finite Natural Resources Recycling used concrete minimizes the need for extracting more materials from the earth. This not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the environmental impact associated with extracting and transporting new resources. Decarbonization of the Construction Industry Concrete made with recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) emits fewer emissions compared to concrete made with virgin resources. Moreover, this contributes to the overall decarbonization of the construction industry. Lighter Concrete Further, recycled concrete can be lighter than freshly produced concrete. This characteristic translates to more volume per ton per order, providing practical benefits during construction. Reduced Costs Recycling concrete can be a cost-effective solution. The production of recycled concrete often requires fewer raw materials and incurs lower transportation costs, making it a financially viable option. Recycled Concrete Being Environmentally Friendly When we question whether something is sustainable (or environmentally friendly), we're essentially asking if we can keep making or using it without causing harm to the environment. In simpler terms, does the ongoing production or use of that thing have a positive or negative impact on the environment? If it's not sustainable, it means that continuing to produce or use it will keep harming the environment. The continual use of concrete has the potential to harm the environment because concrete isn't biodegradable and doesn't easily decompose. However, this doesn't provide the complete answer to the question. Despite concrete not being biodegradable, it is highly recyclable, as you might already have figured out. This means it can be reused almost endlessly. Moreover, there are always applications for old concrete, implying that the use of old concrete doesn't significantly impact the environment. Consequently, concrete can be considered environmentally friendly.

4. So, if you're uncertain about the environmental impact of concrete, remember that conscious recycling makes concrete a sustainable option. It underscores the importance of making an effort to recycle your demolished concrete whenever the opportunity arises. Where Can I Purchase Recycled Concrete? JJD Recycling offers a range of recycled concrete options suitable for any project you're tackling. Our experienced team can assist you in determining the right amount and type of material, and we can even handle the installation. Further, seeking professional advice ensures you make the correct material choice, helping you avoid potential issues, like erosion and drainage problems that can arise from selecting the wrong size crushed concrete. Another option for acquiring recycled concrete or Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) in your vicinity is to locate a nearby concrete recycling plant. Yet, we advise against this unless you possess expertise and confidence in determining the type and quantity of material required. Additionally, you'll need to consider renting or purchasing installation equipment, depending on the nature of your project.