Enhancing quality inspection efficiency and reliability of unscreened recycled coarse aggregates (RCA) streams using innovative mobile sensor-based technology

Abstract

Recycled coarse aggregates (RCA) from End-of-Life (EoL) concrete face resistance due to inconsistent quality. To address this, a mobile, containerized sensor-based inspection system is developed, capable of processing over 100 tons of RCA per hour. Using advanced 3D scanning and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), the system ensures reliable real-time analysis of particle size distribution (PSD) (Root Mean Square Error: <5.5%) and contaminant detection (Accuracy: 0.94). Incremental learning techniques dynamically update chi-square distribution parameters as new spectral data becomes available, refining models continuously without full retraining and sustaining high classification performance. Monitoring data are recorded on radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, enhancing traceability. This innovation improves efficiency compared to traditional methods, supporting sustainable practices in the construction industry. Its applications also extend to related fields such as mining, waste management, and resource recovery, contributing to the circular economy, reducing reliance on natural aggregates, and promoting environmentally friendly infrastructure development.

Keywords

• Recycled coarse aggregates (RCA)
• Quality inspection
• Concrete recycling
• Conveyor belt
• 3D scanner gocator
• Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS)