Experimental studies on physical properties and strength response of construction and demolition wastes

Abstract

There is increasing inclination towards the reuse of construction and demolition wastes (CDWs), primarily containing building derived materials (BDM) in engineering practices such as ground improvement. Currently BDMs are used in the form of recycled aggregates that incur extra cost due to refinements. The present study, thereby, emphasizes on the use of virgin BDM. No previous studies related to its characterization and utilization in ground improvement have been reported till now. Hence, this study focuses on the characterization of BDM and its durability aspects through physical, chemical, and microscopic studies to test their compatibility when used in conjunction with local soil contaminated with aggressive chemicals. Soil composition varies based on the vicinity of a chemical plant, waste processing plant, or a coastal area. Results from this study can be used to encourage the practical use of BDM especially in chemically contaminated soil and developing relevant standard codes.