Method for the analysis of the recyclability of building structures

This publication introduces a method to analyse the ability of structures to be recycled. It has the objective to develop the recyclability of structures at the beginning and to secure this ability till the end of the life cycle. Structural compositions are described by recycling graphs. The components represent on the one hand material elements and on the other hand the connections between them. Materials are classified in terms of their recyclability, their ability to be incinerated and the harmfulness of their deposition. The connections are evaluated regarding their ability to be disassembled and the compatibility of the materials connected. The structures are translated into connection matrixes and the aspects of the evaluation are -assessed individually and in combination. They are classified regarding their ability to be recycled (modularity and compatibility of materials). Further evaluation aspects are discussed for the potential extension of the method. The method has been implemented in a prototype of a modelling environment and is demonstrated and described for the analysis of four wall structures relevant to praxis.