Characterization and Suitability Assessment of Construction and Demolition Waste for Bitumen Incorporation in Sustainable Pavement Construction

The rapid growth of infrastructure development has led to a substantial increase in construction and demolition waste (CDW), creating serious environmental and disposal challenges. At the same time, road construction relies heavily on bitumen and natural aggregates, the extraction of which contributes significantly to environmental degradation. This study focuses on the characterization of construction and demolition waste and evaluates its suitability for incorporation into bitumen mixtures for sustainable pavement applications. Major categories of CDW, including concrete waste, asphalt waste, brick waste, and plastic waste, are examined based on their physical, mechanical, and compositional properties. The study relies on systematic material characterization, supported by standard laboratory tests and qualitative performance assessment reported in the dissertation. The findings indicate that selected CDW materials possess adequate strength, durability, and compatibility with bitumen when properly processed. Crushed concrete and recycled asphalt show high potential as aggregate replacements, while processed plastic waste enhances binding and deformation resistance. The study concludes that construction and demolition waste, when adequately characterized and controlled, can be effectively utilized in bitumen layers, contributing to sustainable road construction and circular economy practices.