LIBS-ConSort: Development of a sensor-based sorting method for construction and demolition waste

A joint project of partners from industry and research institutions approaches the challenge of construction and demolition waste (CDW) sorting by investigating and testing the combination of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and visual imaging. Joint processing of information (data fusion) is expected to significantly improve the sorting quality of various materials like concrete, main masonry building materials, organic components, etc., and may enable the detection and separation of impurities such as SO3-cotaining building materials (gypsum, aerated concrete, etc.). Focusing on Berlin as an example, the entire value chain will be analyzed to minimize economic / technological barriers and obstacles at the cluster level and to sustainably increase recovery and recycling rates. The objective of this paper is to present current progress and results of the test stand development combining LIBS with NIR spectroscopy and visual imaging. In the future, this laboratory prototype will serve as a fully automated measurement setup to allow real-time classification of CDW on a conveyor belt. © 2023 The Authors. Published by Ernst & Sohn GmbH.