CHARACTERIZATION OF CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION WASTE FOR FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT BASES

Abstract

Efficient management of municipal solid waste (MSW) presents a challenge in the management of large cities. Among municipal solid waste (MSW), construction and demolition waste (CDW) stands out due to its large volume and the potential environmental damage it can cause. Reusing this waste helps minimize its harmful environmental impacts. When properly processed, solid waste from the construction industry offers significant potential for reuse, as it reduces conventional operating costs and enables projects of social interest. This work verified the feasibility of using CDW as a source for obtaining fine aggregate for use in the base of flexible pavement. Samples of this waste were collected, processed, and a test was developed to obtain the California Bearing Ratio and Expansion, preceded by the Proctor Method (Compaction). The results showed that the fine aggregate obtained from C&D waste met the minimum parameters stipulated in the standard for its use in constructing some layers of flexible pavement, minimizing the environmental impact of its disposal. Both the moisture and expansion results demonstrated that the fine aggregate used in the experiments yielded values compatible with potential use as an additive in the preparation of paving materials. The recycling of construction and demolition waste (CDW) has proven to be a fertile ground for further research aimed at characterizing the wide range of applications for these materials in paving as well as other sectors given their significant economic and social impact.