International Research Journal of Education and Technology

The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of natural resources and a major contributor to environmental degradation due to the generation of vast amounts of construction and demolition waste. In line with sustainable development goals, this study explores the implementation of circular economy (CE) principles in construction waste management through the innovative reuse of biomedical waste ash and 100% recycled organic aggregate in concrete production. The primary objective is to reduce the reliance on natural raw materials while promoting waste valorization and environmental sustainability.

In this experimental study, cement is partially replaced with biomedical waste ash in varying proportions ranging from 0% to 14%, while natural coarse aggregate is completely substituted with 100% recycled organic aggregate derived from processed construction or agricultural waste. Biomedical waste, a growing environmental and public health concern in India, is thermally treated to produce ash with pozzolanic properties suitable for cement replacement. The concrete mixes are evaluated for key mechanical and durability parameters, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, water absorption, and sorptivity.

The results demonstrate that concrete incorporating biomedical waste ash and recycled organic aggregate can achieve comparable or even improved performance characteristics under optimal replacement levels. This approach not only diverts hazardous biomedical waste and organic matter from landfills and incineration but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with cement production and natural aggregate mining.

The findings support the feasibility of integrating circular economy strategies into construction materials, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional practices. The study contributes to advancing resource-efficient construction technologies and highlights the importance of regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagement, and innovative materials in promoting circularity in the built environment.

Key Words: - biomedical waste, natural aggregate, mechanical and durability parameters, compressive strength, split tensile strength