A newly certified circular material supports efforts to reduce the use of virgin resources in construction. FORZ Filler, developed by waste-to-product company Renewi, has received KOMO certification. It can now be used in non-structural concrete applications such as tiles, paving elements and non-load-bearing walls.
ATM, a subsidiary of Renewi, produces FORZ Filler by processing complex waste streams. These include tar-containing asphalt granulate and contaminated soils. The process converts these materials into a mineral filler for concrete.
The certification confirms that the material meets technical, safety and performance standards. As a result, designers and manufacturers can specify it in projects, tenders and prefabricated products. It offers an alternative to conventional fillers such as sand and gravel.
Concrete plays a major role in the built environment. However, it has a high environmental impact due to raw material extraction and energy use. Circular fillers can help reduce this impact, especially in non-structural applications.
Designers can use this type of material to increase recycled content in their projects. Possible applications include façade elements, paving, interior finishes and urban furniture. These products can maintain performance while lowering their environmental footprint.
FORZ Filler underwent independent testing before receiving certification. The process examined material behaviour, stability and safety. This shows that circular materials can meet current construction standards.
At the same time, certification processes often take a long time. This can slow down the adoption of new materials. Faster and more flexible frameworks could support the transition to a circular construction sector.
The current certification applies to non-structural applications only. Further research is ongoing to assess use in structural concrete. If approved, this could expand its applications.
For now, the material provides a certified way to use recycled mineral content in concrete products. It supports efforts to reduce reliance on primary raw materials.
Source & photo: Renewi