Approach of the Circular Economy in the Field of Precast Elements and Buildings. Limits, Trends, and Perspective

Abstract

The precast concrete industry has a relatively short history but a rapid development due to the increased demand for construction since the 1950s. Large or small-sized precast elements were used for construction of buildings making a continuous contribution to the development of the construction industry and the built stock. The development of new materials with the addition of natural and artificial fibers, binders, or aggregates as secondary raw materials, and high thermal performance materials, innovative joints for an easily disassemble or photovoltaic integrated in their structure are measures considered in the current context of climate neutrality as being necessary to increase the precast circularity or buildings energy performance. Precasts were mainly used due to their lower production and labor cost or reduced execution time, representing a good option for the future construction sector. The chapter presents the background, technical and economic shortcomings of the precast, their trends and development prospects in materials circularity, and recovery rate increase.