In the heart of Bogotá, a groundbreaking study led by Carol Murillo from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia is turning the city’s construction and demolition waste (CDW) into a valuable resource for sustainable urban infrastructure. The research, published in the journal *Buildings* (which translates to “Buildings” in English), explores the mechanical behavior of paving stones made from recycled aggregates derived from the city’s mass transit system, TransMilenio, slabs.
Murillo and her team investigated the performance of concrete paving stones manufactured with recycled aggregates, replacing natural aggregates at substitution levels of 0%, 30%, 50%, and 100% by volume. The results are promising, with all mixtures exhibiting enhanced compressive strength, ranging from 14.71% to 32.82% compared to the control mix. Flexural strength also saw improvements of 1.34% to 6.13%.
“This study demonstrates the technical viability of incorporating TransMilenio demolition waste in paving stone production,” Murillo stated. “It’s a significant step towards circular economy principles and sustainable urban infrastructure development.”
The research evaluated several mechanical properties, including compressive strength, flexural strength, abrasion resistance, and water absorption, following Colombian Technical Standards and international protocols. While water absorption increased proportionally with the CDW content, the optimal substitution level was identified at 30% CDW-A-TS based on a composite evaluation of mechanical performance and durability indicators.
The implications for the construction industry are substantial. As cities worldwide grapple with the challenges of urbanization and sustainability, this research offers a practical solution for reducing waste and enhancing the durability of urban infrastructure. The use of recycled aggregates not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also presents a cost-effective alternative to natural aggregates.
“This finding aligns with prior research affirming the viability of incorporating recycled coarse aggregates in concrete prefabricates, such as paving stones, for various construction applications,” Murillo added.
The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field by encouraging the adoption of recycled materials in construction projects. As the demand for sustainable and durable infrastructure grows, the use of recycled aggregates could become a standard practice, reducing the environmental impact of construction activities and promoting a circular economy.
In the broader context, this research highlights the potential for innovation in the construction industry. By turning waste into a valuable resource, cities can reduce their environmental footprint while enhancing the quality and durability of their infrastructure. The study’s findings could inspire similar initiatives in other urban centers, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient built environment.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of recycled materials in construction projects will play a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals. The research led by Carol Murillo from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia serves as a testament to the potential of innovative solutions in addressing the challenges of urbanization and sustainability.