Methods for upcycling demolition waste, products and uses thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure concerns a method for upcycling construction and demolition (C&D) debris, resulting upcycled products and uses therefrom. The method comprises separating the debris into a first, silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles and a second, calcium -enriched population of inorganic waste particles, each population of inorganic waste particles comprises, independently, a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; wherein the silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles is characterized by (i) particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; and (ii) silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of at least 5.5; and wherein the calcium-enriched population of inorganic waste particles is characterized by (i) particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and (ii) silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

Description

[0001] METHODS FOR UPCYCLING DEMOLITION WASTE, PRODUCTS AND USES THEREOF

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to constructions and demolition waste.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] References considered to be relevant as background to the presently disclosed subject matter are listed below:

[0006] Chinese patent application publication No. 108821655

[0007] Japanese patent No. 3377831

[0008] European Patent No. 0638052

[0009] Chinese patent application publication No. 112250357

[0010] Acknowledgement of the above references herein is not to be inferred as meaning that these are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0011] BACKGROUND

[0012] About three billion tons of construction and demolition waste are produced globally, but only partially recycled. A main component (60-70%) of construction and demolition waste is concrete waste. The high amounts of constructions and demolition wastes poses significant economic and environmental problems.

[0013] There is a long felt need to solve this problem and return the waste to the construction industry supply chain as a high quality supplementary cementitious material, which can partially replace the Portland cement material.

[0014] CN108821655 describes regenerated concrete and a preparation method thereof. The recycled concrete is characterized in that it comprises components, cement, sand, gravel, waste tire powder, bamboo fiber, fly ash, construction waste powder, quartz sand powder, lithium powder, silica fume, retarding agents, water reducing agents, modifiers, water. The quartz sand powder are selected by thermal plasma of high temperature fired modified quartz sand powder; and the water reducing agents include activated sludge, sodium molybdate, modified straw fiber, beta-naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensates, magnesium silicate.

[0015] JP 3377831 describes cement slurry and a cement grout mainly consisting of a high-cement-gel-content fine powder obtained by grinding and classifying waste concrete formed when a concrete structure is disintegrated, or a sludge formed in a ready-mix concrete plant or a concrete product factory.

[0016] EP0638052 describes the manufacturing of concrete roof tiles including crushed waste concrete in the cementitious mixture.

[0017] CN112250357 describes the use of recycled micropowder of waste concrete, obtained by removal of coarse aggregate and fine aggregate and the remaining waste particles and powder being ground to obtain all particles with a particle size of between 0.03mm and 0.1mm, preferably, the particle size of the waste concrete regenerated fine powder is 0.035-0.045mm. This micropowder can be used as part of masonry admixtures.

[0018] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0019] The present disclosure is based on the finding that separating construction and demolition (C&D) debris into two particles populations, a first population enriched with silicon-containing compounds and the second population being enriched with calcium-containing compounds (the enrichment being with respect to the content in the starting C&D debris material and / or in one with respect to the other), provides two composites that have beneficial properties that may be considered superior to that of the C&D debris / starting material.

[0020] Without being limited thereto, a beneficial property is the pozzolanic and / or hydraulic and / or cementitious activity of the first particles population and / or second particles population as compared to that of the C&D debris from which they are derived, when determined under same conditions. Further, without being limited thereto, a beneficial property is the performance as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), being greater than that of C&D debris, from which it is derived, when determined under same conditions.

[0021] Yet further, without being limited thereto, a beneficial property found for the calcium enriched particles relates to its activity in carbon capturing.

[0022] The separation between the two particles population is based on the difference in particles size, the latter being, assumably, related to the difference in hardness of the silicon containing compounds vs. the calcium-containing compounds. Thus, without being bound by theory, it is believed that the downsizing the C&D debris results in smaller-sized calcium-enriched particles and larger-sized silicon-enriched particles, as further detailed below, which allows the easy separation between the aforesaid two populations.

[0023] Thus, in accordance with a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method of upcycling construction and demolition (C&D) debris, the method comprising separating said debris into a first, silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles and a second, calcium-enriched population of inorganic waste particles, each population of inorganic waste particles comprises, independently, a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; wherein the silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles is characterized by particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of at least 5.5; and wherein the calcium-enriched population of inorganic waste particles is characterized by particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

[0024] In accordance with a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a silicon-enriched composite material comprising a population of inorganic waste particles, wherein said inorganic waste particles have a particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; said inorganic waste particles comprise a plurality of inorganic compounds; said plurality of inorganic particles comprise at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; and said silicon containing compounds and calcium containing compounds are present at a weight ratio of at least 5.5.

[0025] In accordance with a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a silicon-enriched construction composition comprising hydraulic cement and a silicon-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed second aspect.

[0026] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an article of manufacture comprising the silicon-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed second aspect, or the silicon-enriched construction composition according to the presently disclosed third aspect.

[0027] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method of producing a shaped article of manufacture, the method comprising mixing a silicon-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed second aspect, or the silicon-enriched construction composition according to the presently disclosed third aspect, with at least water to obtain a silicon-enriched paste, and processing said paste into a shaped article of manufacture.

[0028] In accordance with a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a calcium-enriched composite material comprising a population of inorganic waste particles comprising a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; a particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

[0029] In accordance with a seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a calcium-enriched construction composition comprising hydraulic cement and a calcium-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed sixth aspect.

[0030] In accordance with an eighth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an article of manufacture comprising the calcium-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed sixth aspect or a calcium-enriched construction composition according to the presently disclosed seventh aspect.

[0031] In accordance with a ninth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method of producing a shaped article of manufacture, the method comprising mixing a calcium-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed sixth aspect or a calcium-enriched construction composition according to the presently disclosed seventh aspect, with at least water to obtain a calcium-enriched paste, and processing said paste into a shaped article of manufacture.

[0032] In accordance with tenth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for carbon capturing, the method comprises exposing a calcium- enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed sixth aspect, to CO2- containing environment.

[0033] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figs. 1A-1C are laser scanning outputs showing particles size distribution (PSD) of the intake Construction & Demolition debris, (Fig. 1A); of the silicon-enriched fraction, (Fig. IB), and of the calcium-enriched fraction (Fig. 1C).

[0035] Figs. 2A-2C are XRD of silicon-enriched fraction (Fig. 2A), calcium-enriched fraction (Fig. 2B) and of the intake Construction & Demolition debris (Fig. 2C); the XRD indicating peaks of some of the calcium or silicon containing compounds within each fraction and the % of some in the respective fraction.

[0036] Figs. 3A-3D are bar graphs showing, respectively, the strength percentage of concrete measured after 7 days or 28 days, the concrete being produced from different weight % of the tested fractions in commercial cement, including 10w% (Fig. 3A), 25 w% (Fig. 3B), 10w%, with a chemical activator (Fig. 3C), and 25 w%, with a chemical activator (Fig. 3D)

[0037] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The present disclosure provides methods and useful products obtained from construction and demolition (C&D) debris. In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, the term C&D debris should be understood to have its commonly acceptable meaning, i.e. debris obtained or obtainable from the breaking down of construction, renovation and demolition activities for buildings, roads and bridges. According to the United States Environment Protection Agency, the C&S debris is a type of waste that typically includes a combination of steel and other metals, wood products, gypsum (the main component of drywall), drywall and plaster, bricks and clay tile, glass, asphalt shingles, concrete, and asphalt concrete.

[0039] It has been surprisingly found that if the C&D debris is downsized (crushed / milled) under controlled conditions, optionally after removing recycled materials (as further explained below), it is possible to obtain a powder exhibiting a bimodal distribution pattern (i.e. two peak pattern), each peak characterizing a population of particles that differ from the other, not only by size, but also by chemical composition and as a result, in their chemical and / or physical characteristics, as exhibited in the below non-limiting examples. Thus, in accordance with a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method of upcycling the C&D debris into two distinct and useful populations of inorganic particles. The method comprises separating the debris into a first population of particles, referred to herein as a silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles and to a second population of particles, referred to herein as a calcium- enriched population of inorganic waste particles. Each population of inorganic waste particles, namely, the first population of particles and the second population of particles, comprises, independently, a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds.

[0040] The obtained silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles, which also form part of the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter and is further defined below, is characterized by: particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of at least 5.5.

[0041] The obtained calcium-enriched population of inorganic waste particles, which also form part of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, and is further defined below, is characterized by: particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

[0042] In some examples of the method according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the upcycling of the C&D debris comprises at least one stage of downsizing. The downsizing is under controlled conditions.

[0043] In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, when referring to downsizing under controlled conditions it is to be understood to include monitoring of the size of the particles such that downsizing is ceased once the debris reaches a particles size distribution where 90% of the particles are less than 70micron and there is a bimodal PSD pattern, with a first peak representing the silicon enriched population of particles and the second peak representing the calcium enriched population of particles.

[0044] In the context of the present disclosure, when stating that the downsizing is until reaching a D90 of 70 micron; at times, of 69 micron; at times, of 68 micron; at times, of 67 micron; at times, of 66 micron; or even, at times, of 65 micron; at times, of 63 micron; at times, of 60 micron, it is to be understood that the endpoint of the downsizing stage is when at least 90% of the debris is less than 70 micron, i.e. there is no further downsizing in order to avoid the formation of an essentially single peak particles size distribution pattern.

[0045] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the endpoint of the downsizing is when reaching D95 of 70 micron; at times, of 69 micron; at times, of 68micron; at times, of 67 micron; at times, of 66 micron; or even, at times, of 65 micron; at times, of 63 micron; at times, of 60 micron.

[0046] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the endpoint of the downsizing is when reaching D95 of 70 micron; at times, of 69 micron; at times, of 68 micron; at times, of 67 micron; at times, of 66 micron; or even, at times, of 65 micron; at times, of 63 micron; at times, of 60 micron.

[0047] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the endpoint of the downsizing is when reaching essentially 99% or even essentially 100% of the particles with a size of less equal or than 70 micron; at times, 69 micron; at times, 68 micron; at times, 67 micron; at times, of 66 micron; or even, at times, 65 micron; at times, of 63 micron; at times, of 60 micron.

[0048] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the endpoint of downsizing is when reaching a bimodal PSD exhibited by a first peak at between about 10 micron and 30 micron and a second peak at between about 50 micron and 65 micron. In this connection, and in accordance with some examples of all aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched population of particles can be characterized by a PSD peak at between about 50 micron and 65 micron, and independent, the calcium- enriched population of particles can be characterized by a PSD peak at between about 10 micron and 30 micron. In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the controlled downsizing is achieved or achievable by sampling of the processed debris during the stage(s) of downsizing and determining particles size distribution of the sampled debris to ensure control of endpoint of downsizing. Once the sample exhibits the desired bimodal size distribution, with D90 of 70 micron, the downsizing process is stopped.

[0049] Downsizing can be by any size reduction techniques known in the art.

[0050] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the downsizing comprises any one or combination of crushing, grinding, milling, etc.

[0051] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the downsizing comprises at least one stage of milling of the C&D debris.

[0052] Milling of C&D debris can be by any one or combination of ball milling, disc milling, rod milling and hammer milling.

[0053] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the milling comprises disc milling.

[0054] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the milling comprises ball milling.

[0055] Downsizing, and in some specific examples, downsizing by milling, can be wet downsizing or specifically wet milling. Wet downsizing can be desirable to avoid formation of air flown dust or for the purpose of liquid-based separation techniques.

[0056] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the downsizing is under dry conditions, i.e. dry downsizing. When using dry downsizing, or as described herein, dry milling, it is possible to actively dry the intake C&D debris before milling. Drying can be, for example, at temperatures whereby water is evaporated, e.g. 100-150°C or about 110°C.

[0057] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the downsizing is under CO2 reduced environment. This is to be understood, the term "CCh-reduced environment" means CO2 concentration that is below the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide.

[0058] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, prior to downsizing the C&D debris can be subjected to removal of recyclable substances. Such recyclable substances can include cellulose containing material (e.g. wood), plastics and / or metals. There are various techniques for the removal of recyclable materials. For example, metals can be removed by the use of magnets; plastics and / or wood can be removed by sieving or blowing (if the intake material is dry), or by specific gravity, whereby the plastics and wood tend to float over water, while the heavier inorganics sink.

[0059] Downsizing as defined herein results in the formation of a composite comprising inorganic particles which are to be separated into two particles populations, based on size differences. Size based separation can be achieved by any technique known in the art, such as sieving, hydrocyclone, air cyclone, centrifugation and separation by sedimentation, and any combination of same.

[0060] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the separation is based on centrifugal forces and comprises at least the use of a hydrocyclone or a centrifuge.

[0061] In some examples, the separation is using a hydrocyclone.

[0062] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the separation is by means of centrifugal forces, as known in the art.

[0063] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the separation comprises at least the use of an air cyclone (also known as a cyclone dust collector).

[0064] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the separation comprises at least sieving.

[0065] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the sieving is through a sieve having a mesh size ranging between about 40 micron and about 50 micron; at times, of about 45 micron, to allow passage of only the calcium-enriched population of particles.

[0066] The separation results in two separated composite materials, the first, of the silicon-enriched particles and the second, of the calcium enriched particles.

[0067] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, subsequent to separation, each population of particles, i.e. the silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles and / or calcium-enriched population of waste particles, are further dried. The drying can be achieved by any known technique, including air drying, oven drying, vacuum drying, etc. In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the drying is under conditions sufficient to reduce water content to be equal or below 5w% out of the total weight of the respective particles' population (i.e. the silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles or calcium-enriched population of waste particles).

[0068] The above method results in the formation of two fractions, a first separated fraction referred to herein as the silicon-enriched composite material; and a second separated fraction referred to herein as the calcium-enriched composite material, each fraction / composite material constituting further aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0069] Specifically, and in accordance with a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided the silicon-enriched composite material. It is to be noted that all definitions and examples provided with respect to the silicon-enriched composite material according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, also apply to the silicon- enriched population of particles referred to with respect to the method of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0070] In accordance with the second aspect, the presently disclosure silicon-enriched composite material comprise a population of inorganic waste particles, wherein the inorganic waste particles have a particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; the inorganic waste particles comprise a plurality of inorganic compounds; the plurality of inorganic particles comprises at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; and the silicon containing compounds and calcium containing compounds are present at a weight ratio of at least 5.5.

[0071] In some examples of the silicon enriched composite material, the inorganic waste particles have a PSD of DIO between 30 micron and 45 micron.

[0072] In some examples of the silicon enriched composite material, the inorganic waste particles have a PSD of D90 between 55 and 65. In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon enriched composite material comprises particles with an average diameter ranging from 50 micron and 63.

[0073] In some examples of the silicon enriched composite material, the inorganic waste particles include a weight ratio between the silicon containing compounds and the calcium containing compounds of at least 5.6, at times, of at least 5.7; at times, of at least 5.8; at times, of at least 5.9; at times, of at least 6.0.

[0074] The weight ratio between the silicon containing compounds and the calcium containing compounds can be obtained by any known chemical analysis technique suitable for determining elemental composition.

[0075] A non-limiting list of chemical analysis techniques include gravimetric methods, volumetric methods, colorimetric methods, X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), Scanning Electron Microscopy, SEM with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Gravimetric Analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP).

[0076] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon enriched fraction is analyzed according to ASTM Cl 14-94 (ASTM Cl 14-94 "Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement"). The techniques used under ASTM Cl 14-94 include gravimetric methods, volumetric methods, colorimetric methods, X-ray fluorescence and loss of ignition (LOI).

[0077] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon enriched population of particles comprise silicon-containing compounds in an amount constituting at least 50 % out of the total dry amount of said inorganic waste particles. In some examples, the silicon-containing compounds is present in the silicon enriched population of particles in an amount constituting at least 55 %; at times, at least 60%; at times, at least 65%; at times, at least 70%; at times, at least 75% out of the total dry amount of said inorganic waste particles.

[0078] The silicon-enriched composite material may comprise components other than the inorganic waste particles, such components may include water and / or organic matter. In accordance with some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material comprises less than 20w% water and / or organic matter.

[0079] In accordance with some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material comprises less than 15w% water and / or organic matter.

[0080] In accordance with some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material comprises less than l lw% water and / or organic matter.

[0081] The amount of water and / or organic matter within the silicon-enriched composite material or in the calcium enriched composite material also disclosed herein, can be determined by loss of ignite (LOI) test conducted at l,050°C, as known in the art and preferably according to ASTM Cl 14-94 ("Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement).

[0082] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-containing compounds in the silicon-enriched composite material comprise silica quartz and / or calcium silica hydrates.

[0083] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-containing compounds in the silicon-enriched composite material are present in any one of amorphous form, crystalline form and combination of same.

[0084] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium - containing compounds in the silicon-enriched composite material comprise at least one of CaCCh, and calcium-magnesium dolomite.

[0085] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the aluminum-containing compounds in the silicon-enriched composite material comprise at least AI2O3.

[0086] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material also comprises iron containing compounds.

[0087] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the iron containing compounds encompass at least Fe2O3. In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material also comprises magnesium containing compounds.

[0088] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the magnesium containing compounds encompass at least calcium-magnesium dolomite.

[0089] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of two or more of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2Ch. The presence of these compounds can be determined by XRD, as known in the art.

[0090] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of three of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

[0091] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of four of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

[0092] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

[0093] It has been surprisingly found, as also exhibited by the non-limiting Examples forming part of the presently disclosed subject matter, that the silicon-enriched composite material, as defined and disclosed herein, have beneficial pozzolan activity. Specifically, it has been found that the silicon-enriched composite material separated from the intake construction and demolition (C&D) debris has a pozzolan activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions. The same conditions may include, maximal particles size, amount and type of other substances present in the tested sample (e.g. activating agent, water, cement), temperature, days after mixing etc. Thus, the presently disclosed subject matter also provides the use of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material for the preparation of pozzolan material, or in other words, for the use as a pozzolan. It has been found that the silicon-enriched composite material increases the pozzolanic activity of cement mix, optionally and at times, preferably, in the presence of a chemical activation agent, as further described below.

[0094] It has been further surprisingly found, as also exhibited by the non-limiting Examples forming part of the presently disclosed subject matter, that the silicon-enriched composite material, as defined and disclosed herein, have beneficial hydraulic activity.

[0095] Specifically, it has been found that the silicon-enriched composite material separated from the intake construction and demolition (C&D) debris has a hydraulic activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions. The same conditions may include, maximal particles size, amount and type of other substances present in the tested sample (e.g. activating agent, water, cement), temperature, days after mixing etc.

[0096] An increase in pozzolanic activity or in hydraulic activity is exhibited, inter alia, in an increase in compressive strength of a mixture of cement with the silicon-enriched composite material, as compared to the compressive strength of the same cement without the silicon-enriched composite material, or an increase in compressive strength of a mixture of cement with the silicon-enriched composite material and with the activating agent, as compared to the compressive strength of the same cement and same amount of the silicon-enriched composite material, without the activating agent.

[0097] Due to the pozzolan and / or cementitious and / or hydraulic activity, it has been envisaged that the silicon-enriched composite material can be part of a cement mixture, for use, inter alia, construction applications.

[0098] Thus, in accordance with the presently disclosed third aspect, there is provided a silicon-enriched construction composition comprising hydraulic cement and the silicon- enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed second aspect.

[0099] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched construction composition comprises at least 5wt%, at times, at least 10wt%; at times, at least 15wt%; at times, at least 20wt%; at times, at least 25wt%; at times, at least 30wt% of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material.

[0100] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched construction composition comprises at least 10wt% of the presently disclosed silicon- enriched composite material.

[0101] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched construction composition comprises at least 25wt% of the presently disclosed silicon- enriched composite material.

[0102] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched construction composition comprises up to 90wt% of the presently disclosed silicon- enriched composite material; at times, up to 80wt%; at times, up to 70wt%; at times, up to 60wt%.

[0103] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched construction composition comprises between about 5wt% and about 90wt% of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material; at times, between about 5wt% and about 75wt% of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material; at times, between about 10wt% and about 90wt% of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material; at times, between about 25wt% and about 75wt% of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material; at times, between about 25wt% and about 80wt% of the presently disclosed silicon-enriched composite material.

[0104] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the silicon-enriched construction composition comprises at least one chemical activation agent.

[0105] In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, the term "chemical activation agent" "activating agent" or "activator" is used, either in connection with the silicon-enriched composite material or in connection with the calcium -enriched composition material, to denote a chemical substance which activates and / or promotes and / or facilitates pozzolanic activity and / or cementitious activity of the presently disclosed composite materials, be it the silicon-enriched composite material and / or the calcium-enriched composite material and the construction compositions comprising the same. In some examples of the present disclosed subject matter, the activator is one that facilitation / promotion of pozzolanic activity.

[0106] In some examples of the present disclosed subject matter, the activator is one that facilitation / promotion of cementitious activity.

[0107] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the activator increases the activity by increasing alkalinity of the composite material or of the construction composition comprising the same and thereby increasing the hydration reaction taking place during cement production. Alkalinity increasing activators and their use in the context of the presently disclosed subject matter is further described hereinbelow.

[0108] In accordance with some further or alternative examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the activator is one that facilitates / promotes the activity by acting as a chelating agent for the calcium groups in the calcium carbonate containing compounds which would otherwise compete with silica in hydration reactions taking place during cement formation. In other words, it is assumed that chelating the calcium carbonate would shift the hydration reaction during cement production to that involving the silicon containing compounds, namely, the reaction (Ca(OH)2+SiO2 — > CaSiO3*2H2O). .

[0109] A non-limiting example for a chemical activator for promoting activity is or comprises Sodium hexameta phosphate ((NaPChje).

[0110] The chemical activation agent can be combined with the silicon enriched or with the calcium enriched composite materials in any order or mixing of components, including, first mixing with the water, first mixing with the commercial cement or first mixing with the composite material disclosed herein, which is used as a cement replacement.

[0111] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the activating agent at least increases the pozzolanic activity of the silicon-enriched composite material.

[0112] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the activating agent at least increases the hydraulic activity of the silicon-enriched composite material.

[0113] There are various chemical activation agents known in the art that can be effective in increasing activity of the silicon-enriched composite material. In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the chemical activation agent suitable for increasing activity of the silicon-enriched composite material (and thus can be added to / form part of the silicon-enriched construction composition), can be or comprise an alkalinity increasing agent.

[0114] In the context of the presently disclosed subject matter, the term alkalinity increasing agent is to be understood to have its acceptable meaning, namely, a chemical agent that is increases alkalinity of a solution or medium.

[0115] A non-limiting list of alkalinity increasing agents that can be used in the context of the presently disclosed subject matter includes potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, calcium oxide (CaO), calcium hydroxide (CaOIL), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCCh) and sodium carbonate (Na2CCh, Soda Ash) and any combination of same.

[0116] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the alkalinity increasing agent comprises at least calcium oxide.

[0117] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the chemical activation agent comprises, non-alkali activators, such as, (NaPCh)6.

[0118] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the chemical activation agent comprises Sodium hexametaphosphate (NaeI PChjs]).

[0119] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the chemical activation agent comprises a combination of two or more activating agents. In some examples, at least one of the activating agents is CaO and / or Sodium hexametaphosphate.

[0120] The silicon-enriched composite material according to the second aspect disclosed herein or the silicon-enriched construction composition according to the third aspect disclosed herein can be used to form articles of manufacture, which forms part of the fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0121] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the article of manufacture (be it from the silicon enriched composite material or from the calcium enriched composite material) is any shaped article that would typically or conventionally be prepared from cement mix. Without being limited thereto, the article of manufacture according to the presently disclosed fourth aspect may be concrete blocks, e.g. for walls, both structural and non- structural, concrete pipes, e.g. for drainage and sewage systems, concrete pavers, e.g. for driveways and walkways; for precast concrete panels, e.g. for building facades, concrete beams, concrete columns, e.g. to provide structural support in bridges and buildings, concrete roof tiles, e.g. for residential and commercial roofing, concrete statues and ornaments, e.g. to serve decorative purposes in gardens and public spaces, concrete steps, concrete culverts, concrete slabs, e.g. for flooring, concrete railway sleepers, concrete tanks, e.g. for water storage, concrete retaining walls, e.g. to prevent erosion in sloped areas, concrete manholes, e.g. to facilitate access in sewer systems, concrete countertops, e.g. to offer durable surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms, concrete fencing, concrete trenches and ducts, concrete foundations, e.g. to support weight of various structures.

[0122] The shaped articles can be obtained by a method, which constitutes a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter. The method comprises mixing the silicon- enriched composite material according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter or from the silicon-enriched construction composition according to the fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, with at least water to obtain a silicon-enriched paste and processing the paste into a shaped article of manufacture.

[0123] The mixing can include other additives that may be needed, such as retarders, accelerators, air-entraining agents, fiber reinforcement agents, colored pigments, pozzolans, lime and combination of same.

[0124] In some examples of the method according to the fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the processing comprises molding.

[0125] In some examples of the method according to the fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the mixing comprises introducing into the paste a filler. The filler can be added prior to or concomitant with the mixing with at least water.

[0126] Without being limited thereto, the filler to be added to the paste obtained from the silicon-enriched construction composition according to the fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter can be any one or combination of sand and coarse aggregates.

[0127] The present disclosure, according to its sixth aspect, provides a calcium-enriched composite material. The calcium-enriched composite material comprises a population of inorganic waste particles comprising a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; a particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

[0128] In some examples of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the inorganic waste particles in the calcium -enriched composite material, have a PSD of DIO between 5 micron and 15 micron.

[0129] In some examples of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the inorganic waste particles in the calcium -enriched composite material, have a PSD of DIO between 3 micron and 10 micron.

[0130] In some examples of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the inorganic waste particles in the calcium -enriched composite material, have a PSD of D90 between 20 micron and 35 micron.

[0131] In some examples of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the inorganic waste particles of the calcium -enriched composite material, have an average diameter ranging from 25 micron and 35.

[0132] In some examples of the sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium containing compounds of the calcium-enriched composite material are present in an amount constituting at least 10wt%, out of the total dry amount of the inorganic waste particles.

[0133] The calcium-enriched composite material can be characterized by its water and / or organic matter content. Accordingly, in some examples, the calcium-enriched composite material is characterized by having less than 20w% of water and / or organic matter as determined by loss of ignite (LOI) test at l,050°C, as known in the art and preferably according to ASTM Cl 14-94 ("Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement). In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the silica-containing compounds in the calcium-enriched composite material comprise silica quartz and / or calcium silica hydrates.

[0134] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the silicon-containing compounds in the calcium-enriched composite material are present in any one of amorphous form, crystalline form and combination of same.

[0135] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-containing compounds in the calcium-enriched composite material comprise at least one of CaCCh, and calcium-magnesium dolomite.

[0136] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the aluminum-containing compounds in the calcium-enriched composite material comprise at least AI2O3.

[0137] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material also comprises iron containing compounds.

[0138] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the iron containing compounds in the calcium-enriched composite material comprise at least Fe2Ch.

[0139] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material also comprises magnesium-containing compounds.

[0140] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the magnesium containing compounds in the calcium-enriched composite material comprise at least calcium-magnesium dolomite.

[0141] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of two or more of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3. The presence of these compounds can be determined by XRD, as known in the art.

[0142] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of three of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3. In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of four of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

[0143] In some examples of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material, and preferably the inorganic waste particles thereof, comprise a combination of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

[0144] It has been surprisingly found, as also exhibited by the non-limiting Examples forming part of the presently disclosed subject matter, that the calcium-enriched composite material, as defined and disclosed herein as part of the presently disclosed sixth aspect, have beneficial pozzolan activity. Specifically, it has been found that the calcium- enriched composite material separated from the intake construction and demolition (C&D) debris as described herein has a pozzolan activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions. The same conditions may include, maximal particles size, amount and type of other substances present in the tested sample (e.g. activating agent, water, cement), temperature, days after mixing etc.

[0145] Thus, there is also provides the use of the calcium-enriched composite material according to the presently disclosed sixth aspect, for the preparation of pozzolan material, or in other words, for the use as a pozzolan. It has been found that the calcium-enriched composite material increases the pozzolanic activity of cement mix, optionally and at times, preferably, in the presence of a chemical activation agent, as further described below.

[0146] It has been further surprisingly found, as also exhibited by the non-limiting Examples forming part of the presently disclosed subject matter, that the calcium- enriched composite material according to the disclosed sixth aspect, and as defined and disclosed herein, have beneficial supplementary cementitious material (SCM) / hydraulic activity.

[0147] Specifically, it has been found that the calcium-enriched composite material separated from the intake construction and demolition (C&D) debris, as described herein, has a SCM / hydraulic activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions. The same conditions may include, maximal particles size, amount and type of other substances present in the tested sample (e.g. activating agent, water, cement), temperature, days after mixing etc.

[0148] An increase in pozzolanic activity or in SCM activity or in the hydraulic activity is exhibited, inter alia, in an increase in compressive strength of a mixture of cement with the disclosed calcium-enriched composite material, as compared to the compressive strength of the same cement without the calcium-enriched composite material, or an increase in compressive strength of a mixture of cement with the calcium-enriched composite material and with the activating agent, as compared to the compressive strength of the same cement and same amount of the calcium-enriched composite material, without the activating agent.

[0149] Due to the pozzolan and / or SCM and / of hydraulic activity, it has been envisaged that the calcium-enriched composite material can be part of a cement mixture, for use, inter alia, construction applications.

[0150] Thus, in accordance with its seventh aspect, the present disclosure also provides a calcium-enriched construction composition comprising hydraulic cement and the calcium-enriched composite material according the presently disclosed sixth aspect.

[0151] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium-enriched construction composition comprises at least 5wt%, at times, at least 10wt%; at times, at least 15wt%; at times, at least 20wt%; at times, at least 25wt%; at times, at least 30wt% of the presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material.

[0152] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium-enriched construction composition comprises up to 90wt% of the presently disclosed calcium- enriched composite material; at times, up to 80wt%; at times, up to 70wt%; at times, up to 60wt%.

[0153] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium-enriched construction composition comprises between about 5wt% and about 90wt% of the presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material; at times, between about 10wt% and about 90wt% of the presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material; at times, between about 25wt% and about 75wt% of the presently disclosed calcium- enriched composite material; at times, between about 25wt% and about 80wt% of the presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material.

[0154] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium-enriched construction composition comprises at least 10wt% of the presently disclosed calcium- enriched composite material.

[0155] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium-enriched construction composition comprises at least 25wt% of the presently disclosed silicon- enriched composite material.

[0156] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the calcium-enriched construction composition comprises at least one chemical activation agent, the chemical activation agent having the meaning as described with respect to the silicon-enriched construction composition, according to the presently disclosed third aspect.

[0157] It has been surprisingly found and disclosed herein that while the silicon-enriched composite material of the second disclosed aspect (or the silicon-enriched construction composition of the third disclosed aspect) and the calcium-enriched composite material of the sixth disclosed aspect (or the calcium-enriched construction composition of the seventh disclosed aspect) are separated from the same debris, and essentially comprise similar inorganic compounds, they behave differently when mixed with cement and water, in the presence of a same chemical activation agent.

[0158] For example, as also exemplified hereinbelow, the combination of the silicon enriched composite material with an alkalinity increasing agent, such as CaO, increased the pozzolan activity of the resulting mixture to a much greater extent than the effect of the same agent when combined with the calcium-enriched composite material, although, in both cases, the agent increased the activity as compared to the effect on the intake material.

[0159] Further, as exemplified hereinbelow, the presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material was more reactive (in terms of pozzolanic activity) in the presence of another (different) chemical agent, namely, Sodium hexametaphosphate, as compared to the effect thereof on the presently disclosed silicon enriched composite material. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the difference in reactivity resides in the difference in composition between the two fractions divided out from the C&D debris. For example, and without being limited thereto, the silicon-enriched composite material comprises a silicon to calcium weight ratio that is greater than the ratio in the calcium-enriched composite material and thus includes more "free" silicon containing compounds to provide or participate in the pozzolanic and / or cementitious activity.

[0160] In addition, or alternatively, the improvement in pozzolanic and / or cementitious activity according to the presently disclosed subject matter can result from chelation or otherwise adsorbing / capturing of calcium-containing compounds that would otherwise compete with the silicon-containing compounds in the activity.

[0161] Without being limited thereto, the presently disclosed experimental examples have shown Sodium hexameta phosphate to be effective in increasing activity of the calcium-enriched composite material and it is believed that this is a result of the capturing of the calcium containing compounds by the Sodium hexameta phosphate, thereby providing "more" silicon-containing compounds to be available for the hydration reaction that take place in cement formation. In fact, it has been envisaged and firstly disclosed herein that the use of such calcium capturing / chelating agents can be effective also in increasing the pozzolanic and / or cementitious activity of the intake C&D debris, as further discussed below.

[0162] The presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material (or the presently disclosed calcium-enriched construction composition) can be used for the production of an article of manufacture, forming part of the presently disclosed eighth aspect.

[0163] In some examples, the article of manufacture from the calcium enriched composite material has the same meaning and non-limiting examples as provided with respect to the article of manufacture produced with the presently disclosed silicon- enriched composite material or the present disclosed silicon-enriched construction composition.

[0164] In some examples, the calcium-enriched article of manufacture, has any shape as described with respect to the shaped article from the silicon-enriched composite material. Thus, all definitions and non-limiting examples provided hereinabove with respect to the article of manufacture produced with the silicon-enriched composite material, also apply for defining the article of manufacture obtained from the calcium-enriched composite material.

[0165] In some examples of the presently disclosed eighth aspect, the article of manufacture produced form the calcium-enriched composite material is shaped into particulate form, e.g. beads, the possible use of such beads being discussed hereinbelow.

[0166] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the article of manufacture according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, is produced by a method according to a further aspect disclosed herein (referred to herein as the ninth aspect). Specifically, the method comprises mixing the calcium-enriched composite material disclosed herein, or the calcium-enriched construction composition disclosed herein, with at least water to obtain a calcium-enriched paste, and processing said paste into a shaped article of manufacture.

[0167] In the context of the calcium enriched paste it is to be understood that its processing has the same meaning, definitions and non-limiting examples, as disclosed herein with respect to the processing of the silicon-enriched paste.

[0168] In some examples of the method according to the presently disclosed ninth aspect, the processing of the calcium enriched paste comprises molding.

[0169] In some examples of the method according to the presently disclosed ninth aspect, the calcium-enriched composite material or the calcium-enriched construction composition are mixed with a filler and / or other one or more additives, prior to or concomitant with the mixing with at least water. The filler and additives have the same meaning as defined hereinabove with respect to the method of producing the article of manufacture from the silicon enriched composite material (or the respective construction composition).

[0170] A unique feature of the calcium-enriched composite material disclosed herein, is that it suitable for capturing carbon dioxide. The calcium-enriched composite material is thus environmentally friendly as it can be utilized in many forms for reducing carbon emissions.

[0171] Thus, in accordance with its tenth aspect, the present disclosure provides the use of the presently disclosed calcium enriched composite material, or the article of manufacture produced from the calcium enriched composite material or from the calcium enriched construction composition, in a method for carbon capturing, or for use as an agent for carbon capturing.

[0172] Without being bound by theory, it is assumed that calcium-containing compounds in the calcium enriched composite material (or in the article of manufacture containing the same) react with carbon dioxide to form calcium carbonate.

[0173] Further, there is provided, in accordance with a presently disclosed eleventh aspect, a method for carbon capturing, the method comprises exposing the presently disclosed calcium-enriched composite material or an article of manufacture obtained from the calcium enriched composite material, as also presently disclosed, to a CCh-containing environment.

[0174] In some examples of the presently disclosed subject matter, the term "exposing to CO2-containing environment" is to be understood to encompass any manner by which there is proximity or even contact between the calcium-containing compounds (in the composite material or in the article of manufacture produced therefrom) and gaseous carbon dioxide, external to the composite material or in the article of manufacture produced therefrom. The contact can be achieved by passing stream of CCh-rich gas, or bubbling of CO2 rich gas over the calcium-enriched composite material or article of manufacture made therefrom; placing the calcium-enriched composite material or article of manufacture made therefrom in carbon dioxide flue gas streams; holding the calcium- enriched composite material or article of manufacture made therefrom with the CCh-rich gas, within a closed container, e.g. within a chamber, in which there is creation of CO2 as a by-product, or e.g. in an autoclave, or by any other means allowing adsorption of the carbon dioxide and thereby capturing of the carbon dioxide by the calcium-enriched composite material or article obtained therefrom.

[0175] Finally, the present disclosure provides a method for increasing pozzolanic and / or cementitious activity of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, the method comprises mixing the C&D debris with calcium capturing / chelating agent. An example for a calcium capturing agent is or comprises Sodium hexameta phosphate. The combination of the C&D debris with calcium capturing / chelating agent can then be used as a supplementary cementitious material, which can partially replace the Portland cement material.

[0176] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0177] The term "about" as used herein indicates values that may deviate up to 1%, more specifically 5%, more specifically 10%, more specifically 15%, and in some cases up to 20% higher or lower than the value referred to, the deviation range including integer values, and, if applicable, non-integer values as well, constituting a continuous range. In some embodiments, the term "about" refers to ± 10 %.

[0178] The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one ” It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0179] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0180] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of or “exactly one of” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e., “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of’ “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0181] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one" in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “ / least one’’’ refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0182] It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

[0183] Throughout this specification and the Examples and claims which follow, all transitional phrases such as “comprising" “including" “carrying" “having" “containing " “involving" “holding" “composed of and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Specifically, it should understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. Only the transitional phrases “ consisting of and “consisting essentially of’ shall be closed or semiclosed transitional phrases, respectively.

[0184] It should be noted that various embodiments of this disclosure is, at times, presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range. Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases "ranging / ranges between" or "between" a first indicate number and a second indicate number and "ranging / ranges from" a first indicate number "to" a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals there between.

[0185] As used herein the term "method" refers to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of the chemical and / or physics arts.

[0186] It is appreciated that certain features of the present disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate aspects, may also be provided in combination in a single aspect or single example. Conversely, various features of the present disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single aspect or single example, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub combination or as suitable in any other described aspects or examples of the present disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various aspects or examples are not to be considered essential features of those aspects or examples, unless the aspect or example is inoperative without those elements.

[0187] Various examples and aspects of the present disclosure as delineated herein above and as claimed in the claims section below find experimental support in the following examples.

[0188] Disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular examples, methods steps, composite materials, compositions, articles of manufacture disclosed herein as such methods steps, composite materials, compositions and articles of manufacture may vary somewhat. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and not intended to be limiting since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. The following examples are representative of techniques employed by the inventors in carrying out aspects of the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that while these techniques are exemplary of preferred examples for the practice of the present disclosure, those of skill in the art, in light of the present disclosure, will recognize that numerous modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the present disclosure.

[0189] DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EXAMPLES

[0190] The following examples are presented in order to assist a person of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention disclosed herein and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0191] Example 1 - Processing of demolition waste with ball mill and characterization

[0192] Construction and demolition debris (C&D debris) were obtained from a demolition recycling plant and was subjected to manual sorting out of metal, wood and plastics. The sorted C&D debris (referred to herein as the intake C&D debris) was then subjected to milling using a ball mill.

[0193] Firstly, the C&D debris was dissolved in tap water, and then dried in 150°C. the C&D debris slurry was then subjected to ball mill. Ball milling grinding method involves introducing a substantial mass of C&D debris over a designated time frame. The grinding duration influences the resulting particle size and therefore, during the griding process, samples were taken every hour, to monitor the downsizing process and milling was stopped when D90 reached 63micron.

[0194] Monitoring was achieved by sampling during the grinding and analyzing the particles size distribution using Laser Scattering Particle Size Distribution Analyzer (Partica LA-960V2, Laser Scattering Particle Size Distribution Analyzer, Horiba). In the following non-limiting examples, the following parameters were used for determining PSD:

[0195] Transmittance(R): 96.9%, Transmittance(B): 95.9%, Circulation Speed:6, Agitation Speed:6, Ultra Sonic: 00:30(6), Form of Distribution: Auto, Distribution Base: Volume, Refractive Index (R): cement[cement( 1.700 - 1.000i),Water( 1.333)], Refractive Index (B): cement[cement( 1.700 - 1.000i),Water( 1.333)]. Interestingly, Faction C included two peaks, as seen in Figure 1A, one having a peak at about 50 micron (logarithmic scale x-axis) and a second peak, at 10 micron. The two peaks were separated using a mesh of 45micron, into Fraction B (referred to herein as the "silicon enriched"') including the larger particles with an average diameter ranging from 50 to 63 microns as shown in Figure IB, and Fraction A (referred to as the "calcium- enriched") containing particles with a peak at about 10 microns as shown in Figure 1C, and D90 of 45micron.

[0196] Characterization

[0197] Fractions A, B and C were subjected to chemical analysis according to ASTM Cl 14 (ASTM Cl 14-94 "Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement"), and loss of ignition (LOI) at two different temperatures (500°C and 1050°C), the results of which are presented in Table 1 (presented according to the parameters acceptable by ASTM Cl 14-94).

[0198] Table 1: Elemental Analysis As can be seen from the results summarized in Table 1, Fraction B, has the highest amount of SiO2and the lowest amount of CaO while Fraction A has the highest amount of CaO and relatively poor in SiO2content. In a different experiment, three fractions prepared as described above, yet obtained from another C&D debris were subjected to XRD (Rigaku SmartLab 9Kw machine) operated under the following conditions:

[0199] Voltage - 45kV

[0200] Electrical current - 150 mA.

[0201] Range - 0-95(2 theta)

[0202] Angual increment step size - 0.01 theta.

[0203] Scan speed - 2-4 theta / min.

[0204] Figures 2A-2C provide the XRD for the three fractions, Fig. 2A provides the XRD for the calcium -enriched fraction (Fraction A), Fig. 2B provides the XRD for the silicon-enriched fraction (Fraction B), and Fig. 2C provides the XRD for the intake material, namely, the C&D debris.

[0205] The XRD results are also summarized in Table 2 providing the %weight (out of total weight) of silicon quarts (SiCh), calcium carbonate (CaCos) and dolomite (MgCaCos) in each fraction.

[0206] Table 2 - XRD characterization

[0207] As shown both in Figs. 2A-2C and in Table 2, each fraction has a different ratio between the components, with the calcium-enriched fraction having a relatively higher calcium content (relative to the silicon enriched or the intake material), while the silicon- enriched fraction contains a relatively higher silicon content, as compared to the calcium enriched fraction or the intake material fraction.

[0208] Thus, the XRD supports the results obtained in the chemical analysis. EXAMPLE 2 - Use of fractions in preparation of Mortar

[0209] Following the fractionation process, mortar samples were tested and tested for their compression strength in accordance with the EN 196-1 Standard (BS EN 196-1 :2016 "Methods of testing Cement", Part 1 : Determination of Strength, BSI Standards Publication).

[0210] The samples included mixtures of Portland cement (according to CEM 52.5N cement standard, which is also used herein as the Reference) with 10% or 25% of each fraction from Example 1 (out of total weight of the dry cementitious materials before mixing with water). Each mixture was examined for its compressive strength at different time points doing cement hardening, according to EN 196-1 Standard, without or with an activating agent.

[0211] Table 3A and Figure 3A provide the % compressive strength (the compressive strength measured in MPa and the % calculated out of the Reference) for each tested sample, including 10% of the indicated fraction, after 7 and 28 days from initial mixing.

[0212] Table 3A -% Compressive strength of Cement using 10% Fractions (after 7 and 28 days)

[0213] * 10% intake material mixed with reference

[0214] ** 10% Calcium enriched fraction mixed with reference

[0215] *** 10% Silicon enriched fraction mixed with reference

[0216] Table 3B and Figure 3B provide the % compressive strength (the compressive strength measured in MPa and the % calculated out of the Reference) for each tested sample, including 25% of the indicated fraction, after 7 and 28 days from initial mixing. Table 3B: % compressive strength of Cement using 25% Fractions (after 7 and 28 days)

[0217] * 25% intake material mixed with reference

[0218] ** 25% Calcium enriched fraction mixed with reference

[0219] *** 25% Silicon enriched fraction mixed with reference

[0220] Tables 3A-3B, and the respective Figures 3A and 3C show that even in the absence of any chemical activation, the separated fractions, namely, the silicon enriched fraction (Fraction B) and the calcium enriched fraction (Fraction A) provide cement with a higher strength as compared to that of the intake material (Fraction C).

[0221] In a further experiment, the effect of adding an activating agent on the strength of the resulting cement was examined. In this particular experiment, activation involved introducing the activation agent into the aqueous medium prior to mixing with the dry materials.

[0222] Two different chemical activating agents were used, NasKPCCk] (Sodium hexametaphosphate, or CaO.

[0223] The effect of the chemical activation in a mixture containing 10% fraction, after 28 days, or in a mixture containing 25% fraction, after 7 days, were examined and the results are presented in Table 3C and Figure 3C or Table 3D and Figure 3D, respectively. The % compressive strength was calculated out of the reference (compressive strength measured in MPa), without an activating agent. Table 3C: % compressive strength of Cement using 10% Fractions (after 28 days) with a chemical activating agent

[0224] * 10% intake material mixed with reference

[0225] ** 10% Calcium enriched fraction mixed with reference *** 10% Silicon enriched fraction mixed with reference

[0226] Table 3C and Figure 3C show that activation with CaO significantly improved the strength of the mixtures comprising the calcium enriched particles or the silicon enriched particles, with preference to the silicon enriched particles, while activation with Sodium hexametaphosphate, significantly improved the calcium-enriched fraction, as compared to the intake material.

[0227] Table 3D -% Compressive Strength of Cement using 25% Fractions (after 7 days)

[0228] * 25% intake material mixed with reference

[0229] ** 25% Calcium enriched fraction mixed with reference *** 25% Silicon enriched fraction mixed with reference

[0230] Table 3D and Figure 3D show that the addition of the chemical activating agent (Sodium hexametaphosphate) improved the strength of the mixture with the separated fractions (silicon enriched or calcium enriched) as compared to the intake material (Fraction C) with an increased improvement of Fraction A (calcium enriched) using this particular activating agent.

[0231] To summarize, different activation agents were used with mixtures comprising 10% and 25% replacements. The results in Tables 3A-3D and in Figures 3A-3D show that it is possible to replace 10% or even 25% of commercial cement mix with either Fraction A or Fraction B disclosed herein and achieve mortar with physical properties (according to EN 196-1 Standard "Methods of testing Cement", Part 1 : Determination of Strength, BSI Standards Publication) that are essentially the same as when using cement mix with non-blended cement. While using the intake material, namely, the non- separated / Fraction C provided an inferior mortar. Moreover, Fraction C was less effected by chemical activation.

[0232] These findings support the conclusion that there is a benefit in processing intake material / Fraction C into separate Fraction A and Fraction B, so that the latter can then used as supplementary cementitious material and / or pozzolanic material. Such suggested activity / use can even be improved with chemical activation agents.

[0233] EXAMPLE 3 - Use of Calcium enriched fraction in Carbon capturing

[0234] The calcium enriched fraction ("Fraction A") can be used for carbon capture applications as it contains Calcium hydroxide which reacts with CO2 to produce mineralized Calcium Carbonate. To examine this potential, the percentage of carbon dioxide adsorption by the calcium-enriched fraction was tested using a U-shaped tube having gas inlet / gas outlet and holding a sample of the calcium-enriched fraction. The tube with the calcium-enriched fraction was weighted before initiation of the test.

[0235] Carbon dioxide gas (99.9%) was then flown, via the inlet, through the tube, for a period of 20 minutes at a flow rate of 75ml / min.

[0236] After 20 minutes, the weight of the tube was taken and the % weight difference was indicative of the amount of captured carbon dioxide, according to the following:

[0237] % absorption = (Final Weight - Initial Weight) / Fraction Weight

[0238] The results showed that the calcium containing fraction was effective in carbon dioxide capturing.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method of upcycling construction and demolition (C&D) debris, the method comprising separating said debris into a first, silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles and a second, calcium-enriched population of inorganic waste particles, each population of inorganic waste particles comprises, independently, a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; wherein the silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles is characterized by particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of at least 5.5; and wherein the calcium-enriched population of inorganic waste particles is characterized by particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

2. The method of claim 1, comprising subjecting said debris to at least one stage of downsizing until reaching a PSD of D90 of not more than 70 micron.

3. The method of claim 2, comprising sampling said debris during said downsizing and determining particle size distribution of said sample.

4. The method of claim 2 or 3, wherein said downsizing is while maintaining a bimodal particle size distribution.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said downsizing comprises milling of the debris.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein said milling comprises any one of ball milling, disc milling, rod milling and hammer milling.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein said milling comprises wet milling or dry milling.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said separation comprises any one of sieving, hydrocyclone, air cyclone, centrifugation and separation by sedimentation, and any combination of same.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein said separation is by sieving through a sieve having a mesh size ranging between about 40 micron and about 50 micron.

10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising removing recyclable material from said C&D debris prior to said separating.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein said recyclable material comprises any one of cellulose containing material, plastic and metal.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising drying at least one of said silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles and calcium-enriched population of waste particles.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein said drying is to a water content of below or equal to 5w% out of a total weight of said silicon-enriched population of inorganic waste particles or calcium-enriched population of waste particles.

14. The method of any one of claims 2 to 13, whenever dependent on claim 2, wherein said downsizing is under CO2 reduced environment.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein said downsizing is at a temperature above about 50°C.

16. A silicon-enriched composite material comprising a population of inorganic waste particles, wherein said inorganic waste particles have a particle size distribution (PSD) of DIO of between about 30 micron and about 50 micron and D90 of between about 55 micron and about 70 micron; said inorganic waste particles comprise a plurality of inorganic compounds;said plurality of inorganic particles comprise at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; and said silicon containing compounds and calcium containing compounds are present at a weight ratio of at least 5.5.

17. The silicon-enriched composite material of claim 16, wherein said silicon containing compounds is present in an amount constituting at least 50 % out of the total dry amount of said inorganic waste particles.

18. The silicon-enriched composite material of claim 16 or 17, comprising less than 20w% water and / or organic matter as determined by loss of ignite (LOI) test at l,050°C.

19. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein said inorganic waste particles also comprise at least one of iron containing compounds and magnesium containing compounds.

20. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein said silicon containing compounds comprise at least one of silica quartz and calcium silica hydrates.

21. The silicon-enriched composite material of claim 20, wherein said silicon containing compounds are present in an amorphous form, crystalline form or combination of same.

22. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein said calcium containing compounds comprises at least one of CaCCh, and calciummagnesium dolomite.

23. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein said aluminum containing compounds comprise at least AI2O3.

24. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 23, whenever dependent on claim 19, wherein said iron containing compounds comprise at least Fe2O3.

25. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 24, whenever dependent on claim 19, wherein said magnesium containing compounds comprise at least calcium-magnesium dolomite.

26. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 25, wherein said inorganic waste particles comprise a combination of two or more of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium -magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

27. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 26, for use as a pozzolan, said silicon-enriched composite material having pozzolan activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions.

28. The silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 27, for use as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), said silicon-enriched composite material having activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions.

29. A silicon-enriched construction composition comprising hydraulic cement and a silicon-enriched composite material according to any one of claims 16 to 28.

30. The silicon enriched construction composition of claim 29, comprising at least 5w% of said silicon-enriched composite material.

31. The silicon-enriched construction composition of claim 29 or 30, comprising a chemical activation agent.

32. The silicon-enriched construction composition of claim 31, wherein said chemical activation agent comprises at least one of an alkalinity increasing agent and calcium- chelating agent.

33. The silicon-enriched construction composition of claim 32, wherein said alkalinity increasing agent comprises at least one of potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, calcium oxide (CaO), calcium hydroxide (CaOHz), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCCh) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3, Soda Ash) and any combination of same.

34. An article of manufacture comprising the silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 28 or the silicon-enriched construction composition of any one of claims 29 to 33.

35. A method of producing a shaped article of manufacture, the method comprising mixing the silicon-enriched composite material of any one of claims 16 to 28 or thesilicon-enriched construction composition of any one of claims 29 to 33 with at least water to obtain a silicon-enriched paste, and processing said paste into a shaped article of manufacture.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein said processing comprises molding.

37. The method of claim 35 or 36, comprising mixing said silicon-enriched composite material or said silicon-enriched construction composition with a filler prior to or concomitant with said mixing with water.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein said filler material is selected from sand, coarse aggregates and combination of same.

39. The method of any one of claims 35 to 38, comprising mixing said silicon- enriched construction composition with at least one additive prior to or concomitant with mixing with said water, said at least one additive comprises at least one of retarders, accelerators, air-entraining agents, fiber reinforcement agents, colored pigments, pozzolans, lime and combination of same.

40. A calcium-enriched composite material comprising a population of inorganic waste particles comprising a plurality of inorganic compounds including at least silicon containing compounds, calcium containing compounds and aluminum containing compounds; a particle size distribution (PSD) of D90 of between about 20 micron and about 45 micron; and silicon containing compounds to calcium containing compounds weight ratio of below 5.5.

41. The calcium-enriched composite material of claim 40, wherein said calcium containing compounds is present in an amount constituting at least 10w%, out of the total dry amount of said inorganic waste particles.

42. The calcium-enriched composite material of claim 40 or 41, comprising less than 20w% of water and / or organic matter as determined by loss of ignite (LOI) test at l,050°C.

43. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein said inorganic waste particles also comprise at least one of iron containing compounds and magnesium containing compounds.

44. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 43, wherein said silicon containing compounds comprise at least one of silica quarts and calcium silica hydrates.

45. The calcium-enriched composite material of claim 44, wherein said silicon containing compounds are present in an amorphous form, crystalline form or combination of same.

46. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 45, wherein said calcium containing compounds comprises at least one of CaCCh, and calciummagnesium dolomite.

47. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 46, wherein said aluminum containing compounds comprise at least AI2O3.

48. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 47, whenever dependent on claim 45, wherein said iron containing compounds comprise at least Fe2O3.

49. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 48, whenever dependent on claim 44, wherein said magnesium containing compounds comprise calcium-magnesium dolomite.

50. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 49, wherein said inorganic waste particles comprise a combination of two or more of silica quartz, silica hydrates, CaCCh, calcium-magnesium dolomite, AI2O3, and Fe2O3.

51. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 50, for use as a pozzolan, said calcium-enriched composite material having pozzolan activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions.

52. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 51, for use as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), said calcium-enriched composite material having activity that is statistically significantly greater than that of construction and demolition (C&D) debris, when determined under same conditions.

53. A calcium-enriched construction composition comprising hydraulic cement and a calcium-enriched composite material according to any one of claims 40 to 52.

54. The calcium-enriched construction composition of claim 53, comprising at least 5w% of said calcium-enriched composite material.

55. The calcium-enriched construction composition of claim 53 or 54, comprising a chemical activation agent.

56. The calcium-enriched construction composition of claim 55 wherein said chemical activation agent chemical activation agent comprises at least one of an alkalinity-increasing agent and calcium chelating agent.

57. The calcium-enriched construction composition of claim 56, wherein said alkalinity increasing agent comprises at least one of potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, calcium oxide (CaO), calcium hydroxide (CaOTb), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCCh) and sodium carbonate (Na2CCh, Soda Ash) and any combination of same.

58. An article of manufacture comprising the calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 52 or the calcium-enriched construction composition of any one of claims 53 to 57.

59. A method of producing a shaped article of manufacture, the method comprising mixing the calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 52 or the calcium-enriched construction composition of any one of claims 53 to 58 with at least water to obtain a calcium-enriched paste, and processing said paste into a shaped article of manufacture.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein said processing comprises molding.

61. The method of claim 59 or 60, comprising mixing said calcium-enriched composite material or said calcium-enriched construction composition with a filler prior to or concomitant with said mixing with water.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein said filler material is selected from sand, coarse aggregates and combination of same.

63. The method of any one of claims 59 to 62, comprising mixing said calcium- enriched composite material or said calcium-enriched construction composition with atleast one additive prior to or concomitant with mixing with said water, said at least one additive comprises at least one of retarders, accelerators, air-entraining agents, fiber reinforcement agents, colored pigments, pozzolans, lime and combination of same.

64. The calcium-enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 52, for use as an agent for carbon capturing.

65. A method for carbon capturing, the method comprises exposing a calcium- enriched composite material of any one of claims 40 to 52 or an article of manufacture according to claim 58 to a CCb-containing environment.

66. The method of claim 65, wherein said exposing comprises passing a stream of CCh-rich gas over said calcium-enriched composite material or over said article of manufacture.

67. The method of claim 65 or 66, comprising placing said calcium-enriched composite material or said article of manufacture in flue gas streams.

68. The method of claim 66, comprising placing said calcium-enriched composition material within a chamber that during operation creates CO2 as a by-product.

69. The method of claim 67, wherein said exposing comprises placing said calcium- enriched composite material within an operating autoclave.

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