Chapter 3: Recycling Processes & Techniques (as per my project)

3.5. RECYCLING OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE

i. STEEL

The Steel pieces during the construction of buildings and other structure are left due to cutting of the steel bars and also by some other process. The salvage value of metals partially offsets the added labor costs for processing materials for recycling. Mixed salvaged steel can be sold at good price to salvage companies. Unprepared ferrous metal exceeding ¼ inch thickness has substantially more salvage value than light gauge scrap metal.

ii. WOOD

Today’s construction practices include the increased use of engineered wood products with high adhesive content, such as plywood, oriented strand board and laminated lumber, including glue-laminated beams and wood I-beams. Wood waste processors may have concerns with this high adhesive content, and should be consulted during preparation of a waste management plan. Engineered wood products may account for up to 50% of wood C&D wastes on a new construction project. This high adhesive content has been a major challenge in recycling, as it is not suitable for mulches and some other products. Engineered wood is often ground up and used as a daily landfill cover product, which is a waste. “Clean” wood wastes from new construction are usually relatively uncontaminated and can be more easily used as feedstock for engineered lumber, than from the demolition process. Other uses for wood waste are pallet production, landscape mulch, wood pellets, animal bedding & compost mediums.

iii. GLASS

During the construction process, the glass wastes are also generated. The recycling process is same as explained in the demolition waste part.

iv. PACKAGING

Packaging materials are plentiful during construction and protect materials, components and finishes during transportation and storage from dust and moisture. If segregation of packaging materials is possible, recyclers are usually easy to find that will accept these materials, often with reduced or even eliminated tipping fees. Care must be taken to avoid contamination of materials.

v. CARDBOARD

Corrugated cardboard has a well-developed end market in most communities. Boxes, packaging and protective covers can easily be flattened. Most recyclers will offer reduced tipping fees for clean cardboard. Some may even accept clean cardboard at no cost.

vi. PLASTIC

While some mixed plastics may not be easily recycled, plastic packaging is now recycled into various useful materials and products including plastic lumber, composite lumber (plastic mixed with wood), injection molded materials, construction materials and home-use items.

(Go to Chapter 4)