An overview of existing application of recycled concrete in China

As China is one of the largest producers of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, it is of great importance to recycle this waste. C&D waste has great recycling possibilities and could be reproduced into recycled aggregate which could be used as a substitution of virgin aggregate in concrete. Developing a strong market is an indispensable foundation to increase acceptable level and to the use of recycled materials from C&D waste. However, a large amount of time and efforts needs to be consumed to formulate a continuous and trustworthy market. Therefore, it is of great importance to investigate current application of recycled concrete in China. This study conducts literature review to obtain an overall understanding of existing application of recycled concrete in China, including composition of C&D waste, performance of recycled aggregate and concrete, and relevant policies. It is found that the current laws and policies released at a national level in China are shown to be ambiguous and not detailed enough to efficiently guide the C&D waste management at a regional level. Although the use of recycled aggregate as a substitution of virgin aggregate in concrete has gained increased attention, it is not widely accepted in construction industry, because of inferior performance. The use of recycled aggregate in China has been limited to road construction and production of non-structural concrete. The results are expected to help stimulate the market of recycled concrete and formulate appropriate waste management in China.