Alternative construction and demolition (C&D) waste characterization method proposal

ABSTRACT Construction and demolition waste generally represents the majority of solid waste generated in Brazilian cities, and characterization of this waste stream is still incipient. Therefore, to support managers in the process in the diagnostic phase, this study consisted in a proposal qualitative characterization method in field, that use of construction and demolition (C&D) waste generation indicators. For this, a survey which have been divided in two stages: quantitative characterization based on a three-indicator-analysis of C&D waste generation and qualitative characterization consists of an image analysis procedure on C&D waste samples. The qualitative characterization method has proved to be efficient for samples with high-volume parts. However, this method is limited to represent characterizations that contain residues which might cover the other C&D waste types, for example, plastic sheeting, cardboard and packaging. This method of image analysis is suitable for use in early diagnostics, which require fast results about C&D waste composition.