Environmental assessment, mechanical behavior and new leaching impact proposal of mixed recycled aggregates to be used in road construction

Several types of mixed recycled aggregates (MRA) from construction and demolition waste (C&DW) treatment plants in Córdoba and Malaga, Spain, and a sample of natural aggregate (NA) were studied to evaluate the viability of their use in the construction of road layers. The physicochemical properties, mechanical behavior and environmental impact of all samples were determined. The life cycle analysis of road sections manufactured with the materials studied was also determined. All samples of MRA showed a mechanical behavior suitable for use in the formation of road layers. In addition, it was determined that these materials, when they come from C&DW with selective collection at origin, cause less environmental impact than the impact caused by the use of natural aggregates in the formation of road layers. [Display omitted] •Four types of MRA of different qualities according to the production system were studied.•New leaching limits impact for Mixed Recycled Aggregates (MRA) is proposed.•Higher MRA rates could be used without causing environmental problems.•The mechanical behavior of MRA is similar to that of natural aggregate.