Towards circularity in brick masonry: knowledge gaps and future needs

Sammanfattning

According to the UN Environment Programme, the construction sector is responsible for 37% of global energy and process-related CO₂ emissions. In Sweden, the latest data from Boverket – the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning – indicates that this sector accounts for 22.1% of the country's total greenhouse gas emissions. As part of national climate efforts, Fossilfritt Sverige (Fossil-Free Sweden) has set targets to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030 and 75% by 2040, with a strong emphasis on lowering energy consumption during the operational phase of buildings. Among the various construction materials, brick production stands out for its high energy demand, primarily due to the elevated temperatures required for firing. Despite its energy-intensive production, brick masonry is widely used in Sweden and is valued not only for its durability and long-term performance but also for its significant cultural and architectural role. Approximately 40–50 million new bricks are used annually in Sweden, while about 10 million bricks are demolished. However, only around 2.5 million of these are currently reused, highlighting a substantial untapped potential for reuse. This thesis presents a literature review that evaluates available methods for promoting the circular management of bricks, with a focus on demolition, separation, and cleaning techniques. The aim is to highlight current challenges in the construction sector that limit the reuse of bricks and identify strategies to support more circular construction practices. In addition to material considerations, the study evaluates the potential energy savings associated with reusing bricks rather than producing new ones. While the reuse of intact bricks for façade applications is prioritized, the study also acknowledges opportunities to repurpose non-reusable bricks, those that are crushed, damaged, powdered, or otherwise unsuitable for façade, according to the 9R framework. These approaches contribute to reduced landfilling and decreased construction waste, thereby promoting more sustainable resource management in the built environment.