Reuse of deconstruction waste for sustainable infrastructures in a circular economic built environment

Summary

This project will investigate the feasibility and optimisation of the reuse of deconstruction waste for next generation sustainable infrastructures in the net-zero and circular economic society. Constructing various infrastructures is necessary for the efficient operation of society and servicing the community for good quality of life. However, the construction industry currently adopts the linear model described as ‘take-make-waste’, wherein raw materials are extracted and made into construction materials and once used, the end-of-life buildings are demolished with the elements mainly disposed to the landfill. This practice model causes annual consumption of 50% raw materials and 30% of energy that are generated globally, and 38% of the global CO2 emissions. Besides, the demolition of end-of-life infrastructures also generates a large quantity of demolition wastes that cause environmental burdens.
To address this challenge and realise a closed-loop circular economy for sustainable construction, the reuse of demolition or deconstruction waste to form the new infrastructures is an essential step. In this project, various forms of elements and materials generated from the demolition of buildings will be reviewed. You will then conduct research on the feasibility, cost efficiency and life cycle assessment of using deconstruction wastes in new building or infrastructure construction to understand the benefits, opportunities and challenges for using deconstruction wastes in construction. Furthermore, road map of the deconstructed materials and business models for using deconstruction wastes for sustainable infrastructures will be proposed to realise the net-zero built environment.
For the project, you are expected to have good knowledge in Civil Engineering or Project/Construction Management, be open to advanced numerical studies and interested in research on sustainability, circular economy and net-zero. You will also benefit from the research resources, such as various fund and award schemes, at University of Leeds.

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.