Optimizing Resource Recovery from Construction and Demolition Waste through Pinch Analysis: A Methodological proposal

Construction and demolition (C&D) debris constitutes a significant proportion of global solid waste generation, contributing to critical issues of resource use, environmental destruction, and excessive dependency on landfills. Now, with the world reaching new heights of urbanization and construction activity, sustainable waste management solutions are more relevant than ever, as these types of waste can have detrimental environmental and economic ramifications if not disposed of properly. This thesis explored the potential of applying an energy and process optimization tool, referred to as Pinch Analysis, towards the resource recovery from C&D waste. Bringing this concept to the management of material flow, the study investigates a systemic approach in which the design of methods to minimize waste generation, maximize reuse potential, and improve recycling are vital. It focuses on a proposed methodology which designs and characterizes and evaluates waste streams for the different categories of C&D which is despite the current unwieldy scavenging of material streams, implementing the Pinch Analysis precept to determine how to separate and thus reuse material within heterogeneous streams. It takes a detailed dive into high value substrates such as concrete, metals and wood that either get lost directly and then in existing recycling systems, thereby the recycling systems that exist today are to all intents and purposes useless. The effect of submerged data on optimization opportunities is considered and the benefits of applying Pinch Analysis to solid waste are outlined These results suggest that a systematic procedure such as that provided by Pinch Analysis can provide a practical alternative in the field of C&D waste management optimization. This approach may foster a more sustainable building practice by assisting in determining the maximum limits for material interchangeability and by optimizing waste disposal policies in order to minimize landfill and emissions associated with material extraction and disposal. Pinch Analysis also accommodates circular economy practices in which the reclaimed material is re-entered into the building material supply chain, relieving pressure on the virgin material extraction and promoting closing the loops within the building processes. In sum, this study shows the transformative potential that Pinch Analysis presents as a strategic approach to progress sustainability in construction waste management. By incorporating this methodology into existing waste processing systems, policymakers, industry representatives, and waste management practitioners can transition toward material efficiency, reduce environmental footprints, and foster a more resource-efficient and resilient urban system. The results of this study improve the theoretical part of Pinch Analysis application and suggest practical recommendations for adopting Pinch Analysis method for complex waste management systems, making it a useful tool to help ensure sustainability in the built environment.