Use of returned concrete aggregate as replacement of virgin aggregate

Returned concrete accounts for up to 4% of the approximately 30 million cubic meters of ready-mixed concrete produced in Australia every year.

The disposal of returned concrete has become increasingly difficult and costly due to the scarcity of dumping sites. Additionally, the disposal process poses significant environmental risks, particularly the potential for harmful leaching into groundwater.

This project, spearheaded by Curtin University alongside Main Road Western Australia, CCAA, and Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd, aims to develop returned concrete into a viable alternative coarse aggregate that reduces the carbon footprint associated with quarrying and transportation of virgin aggregate. The reuse of the returned concrete as aggregate will be a significant contribution to the circular economy, saving annually up to 120,000 cubic meters or 288,000 tonnes of returned concrete from being sent to dumping pits in Australia.

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Main Road Western Australia,
• CCAA,
• Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd