REBRICK project produces solid results in Denmark

With two full-scale brick-cleaning facilities now operating in Denmark, a two-year project to reuse old bricks in new construction is showing strong signs of success.

Backed by about $700,000 euros in funding under the EU’s Eco-Innovation programme, REBRICK consists of a mechanical system to clean concrete and cement from old bricks using technology patented by Gamle Mursten.

The project runs until the end of 2013 and could reduce waste by 24,000 tonnes this year.

Both plants are now selling every “new old brick” produced, according to Claus Nielsen, Gamle Mursten’s REBRICK project coordinator.

Nielsen said although bricks can last for several centuries, those found in demolition waste are typically sent to a landfill, or, at best, crushed and used as aggregate material for low-grade applications such as sub-base and road construction.

However, each time a building is demolished the bricks have the potential to become part of a new building and story, he said.

“By reusing old bricks and transferring their history and applying their character to new buildings, they become tangible examples of the potential that is hidden in demolition debris,” he said. “Eventually millions of people could benefit from REBRICK because it can make beautiful old bricks available for new buildings throughout Europe.”

Because of the project’s initial success in Denmark, organizers are looking to establish sites in other countries, such as Poland and Germany, where demolition sectors are very active.

“Our approach ensures the availability of a sustainable building material while at the same time creating green jobs and contributing to sustainable production and environmentally friendly development within the construction and architecture sectors,” said Nielsen.

For more information visit www.eaci-projects.eu/eco/page/Page.jsp?op=project_detail&prid=2039