Utilization of wastes and by products as construction materials in Canada

A review of the current and potential role of Canadian mining, metallurgical, industrial, municipal, and agricultural wastes and byproducts as construction materials is given. While much developmental work has been completed, and large waste inventories are available, optimistic utilization forecasts must be tempered by the technical and economic constraints (inherent variability, large transportation distances, etc.) that will tend to limit applications. The greatest potential is seen where energy is recovered or saved, or the wastes and byproducts offer performance advantages over conventional materials. The most promising wastes and byproducts are indicated within the Canadian context, and specific details are given to illustrate the utilization concepts developed.