REVISÃO BIBLIOGRÁFICA SOBRE O USO DE RESÍDUO DE CONSTRUÇÃO E DEMOLIÇÃO (RCD) COMO ALTERNATIVA SUSTENTÁVEL EM EDIFICAÇÕES

Abstract

The construction sector is among the largest consumers of natural resources and generators of waste, with Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) representing a significant portion of this environmental impact. In this context, the objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of Brazilian research on the use of CDW as a sustainable alternative in buildings, identifying its main applications, benefits, and challenges from technical, environmental, economic, and social perspectives. A systematic review covering publications from the last ten years (2016–2025) was carried out, resulting in the identification of 20 studies primarily focused on replacing conventional aggregates with CDW. The technical analysis of the studies indicates that CDW demonstrates mechanical feasibility when applied within controlled substitution limits. In soils, it may increase compressive strength by more than 69%, although it does not always meet normative expansion limits. In concrete, partial substitutions (50%) may reach strengths of approximately 28 MPa, whereas higher replacement levels in mortars (above 25-30%) often reduce strength and increase porosity. Challenges remain regarding material variability, increased cement consumption, and the lack of consolidated durability data. The incorporation of fibers or ashes may improve performance locally but does not fully address these limitations. From an environmental perspective, studies highlight the reduction of waste sent to landfills and the decreased extraction of natural resources. Although quality control requires a higher initial investment, there is evidence suggesting potential future cost savings; however, no quantitative data confirm this benefit. The social dimension is minimally addressed and mainly associated with job creation. Therefore, a gap remains in the integration of indicators capable of jointly assessing the environmental, economic, and social pillars. In conclusion, the use of CDW is technically feasible but still limited in scale, requiring objective indicators, financial incentives, and public policies that support circular economy strategies to enable meaningful progress.