Characterization of construction and demolition wastes for valorization as raw materials resource

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Sis H., Erdemoğlu M., Kiyak T., Birinci M., Bentli I., Eren Sarici D., ...More

PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROBLEMS OF MINERAL PROCESSING, vol.65, no.5, pp.1-9, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 65 Issue: 5
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.37190/ppmp/231237
  • Journal Name: PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROBLEMS OF MINERAL PROCESSING
  • Journal Indexes: Applied Science & Technology Source, Scopus, Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED)
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-9
  • Inonu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Construction and Demolition Waste (C&DW) comprises a heterogeneous mixture of

materials, including concrete, brick, marble, tile, asphalt, mortar, and plaster. Since concrete is the most

widely used man-made material, and cement production remains a primary source of global CO2

emissions, recycling of C&DW as secondary raw materials is essential for advancing the circular

economy and preserving natural resources. While C&DW is generally utilized as filler, road base, or

aggregate, the sequestration of CO2 to produce recycled carbonated aggregate (RCA) has gained

importance. However, effective valorization depends on comprehensive chemical and mineralogical

characterization. In this study, C&DW from an earthquake waste disposal site in Malatya (Türkiye) was

characterized by utilizing XRD, XRF, ICP, elemental (CHNS), Mineral Liberation Analysis (MLA), and

TGA/DTA analysis techniques. XRF results indicated a complex composition primarily dominated by

calcium carbonate (39.87% CaO), with significant concentrations of SiO2 (17.963%) and considerable

amounts of Al2O3 (4.146%). MLA revealed the complexity of the sample, as all the phases are intricately

locked together, and the liberation required excessive grinding. The results further indicated that some

valuable constituents (e.g., Al and Si) in C&DW can be recovered through metallurgical processing

following liberation. Residual materials from hydrometallurgical treatment can subsequently undergo

CO₂ sequestration-based carbonation to produce recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) for use in the

construction industry.