Sustainable Materials

TRL is working to reduce the demand for primary aggregates through research into the development and use of recycled materials and secondary aggregates in a variety of different applications. These include road construction and maintenance, slope reinforcement and thermal and noise insulation.

We provide leading edge research to identify, develop and assess new construction materials, including those manufactured from recycled waste materials and industrial by-products. We conduct controlled testing of new materials, products and processes and have helped our clients to improve regulation through revision of manufacturing standards. Our extensive knowledge of the properties and performance of construction materials means that we are well placed to develop and refine products for particular applications in industry. TRL offers a certification service for aggregate producers, including confirmation that recycled aggregates are produced in accordance with the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Quality Protocol.

TRL has worked for the Department for Trade and Industry and WRAP to explore the existing and potential markets for recycled and secondary aggregates and to help engage wide support for their use within the construction industry. We developed modules for WRAP's AggRegain website, a "one-stop shop" portal for information on recycled and secondary aggregates, and through the Aggregates Research Programme have identified case studies on the use of alternative materials in a wide range of construction applications. We have developed and delivered roadshows for WRAP on topics including recycling for local authority highway engineers ("Recycled Road"), recycling of demolition material and good practice in the use of the WRAP Quality Protocol for the production of aggregates from inert waste. As well as public workshops, we carry out bespoke in-house training for individual organisations and project teams.

Sustainable material use takes into consideration the environmental, social and cost impacts across their whole life cycle. We have developed tools to assess the sustainability of options for the production, procurement and distribution of sustainable materials, and to aid in decision-making processes. TRL has particular expertise in the use of resource flow and life-cycle assessments within the construction industry, as described in the LCA and Carbon Footprinting section of our website.

Our key capabilities in this area include:

• Aggregate producer audits
• Identifying opportunities and measures for waste recycling and secondary aggregates / materials
• Assessment and testing of recycled / secondary materials
• Assessment and testing of sustainable construction methods
• Laboratory testing and full-scale trials
• Development and refinement of products manufactured from recycled / secondary materials
• Mass balance studies
• Life cycle assessments and carbon footprinting
• Develop indicators for procurement and benchmarking
• Development of material resource strategies
• Feasibility studies, including costed recommendations and assessment of risks
• Reviewing standards and specifications
• Training and dissemination of best practice, including bespoke workshops for organisations and project teams
• Aggregates quality protocol training
• Sustainable procurement advice

If you'd like to know more about sustainable material use or how C4S can help your organisation improve resource efficiency and minimise environmental and social impacts of its production and use, please complete the enquiry form at the foot of this page - one of our experts will contact you as soon as possible.