Recycled Materials in Construction: Trends, Status, and Future of Research

Jiawei Wu, Xunrong Ye () and Huachun Cui ()
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Jiawei Wu: School of Design, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
Xunrong Ye: School of Design, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
Huachun Cui: School of Design, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 6, 1-38

Abstract: The utilization of recycled materials has emerged as a pivotal strategy for mitigating resource depletion and reducing carbon emissions in the construction industry. However, existing reviews predominantly focus on specific technical aspects, often overlooking the interdisciplinary complexities associated with recycled materials as a systems engineering challenge. This study systematically reviews 1533 documents from the Web of Science Core Collection, integrating quantitative and qualitative analytical approaches to assess the current state and future trajectory of the field, thereby addressing existing research gaps. The findings highlight the substantial evolution of recycled building materials from waste recovery to a multifaceted domain encompassing value assessment, circular economy principles, advanced technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and long-term societal benefits. This study identifies six key research themes in recycled building materials: life cycle assessment, biological and natural materials, recycled concrete, recycled asphalt and building infrastructure, construction and demolition waste, and environmental impacts with composite factors. Furthermore, current research is categorized into two primary dimensions: value strategies and technological tools. The analysis of future research directions underscores the potential of AI-driven innovations and their role in enhancing human living environments. However, developing countries continue to face critical challenges, necessitating further interdisciplinary integration and knowledge exchange. Finally, this study proposes a comprehensive and systematic disciplinary framework that offers valuable insights for future strategic planning and technological advancements in the field.

Keywords: recycled materials; construction; life cycle assessment; circular economy; recycled concrete; bibliometric analysis; research trends (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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