A recent industry article has raised concerns about whether recycled aggregates could contribute to future “mundic” issues in Cornwall.
Mundic has understandably left a lasting legacy in the region, and any discussion about material quality in construction deserves to be taken seriously. However, it is equally important that conversations are grounded in current regulation, modern testing standards, and robust production processes.
We understand why mundic remains a sensitive topic in our region. However, we are equally passionate about the role recycled aggregates can play in sustainable construction, and when produced responsibly, they do not pose mundic-related risks.
Understanding the Regulatory Framework
Today’s recycled aggregate production operates in a completely different world from the practices of decades past. This includes;
- Robust regulation – The UK waste management framework requires formal classification, testing and documentation before materials can be processed or reused.
- Advanced technology – Modern washing, separation, and processing equipment that didn’t exist 30 years ago
- Rigorous testing – Laboratory analysis at every stage of production
- Complete traceability – Every load tracked from source to site
At RIG, we require appropriate classification and investigation information before accepting material. This ensures we understand precisely what is entering our facility and confirms it meets inert waste criteria.
The Source of Our Materials
Some waste streams, such as historic demolition rubble, made ground, or legacy mining materials, require particularly careful assessment and management. We work primarily with:
- Clean, inert soil and stone
- Virgin subsoil from new developments
- Materials backed by comprehensive ground investigation data
What we don’t use: Historic mining waste, contaminated fill, or any materials with unknown origins.
This isn’t just company policy – it’s fundamental to producing aggregates that meet modern construction standards.
Modern Production & Quality Control
Producing high-quality recycled aggregates suitable for use in concrete is technically complex. It requires:
- Advanced washing and separation technology
- Strict input controls
- Ongoing laboratory testing
- Documented quality assurance procedures
In addition to regulatory compliance, RIG undertakes Alkali-Silica Reactivity (ASR) testing on materials.
ASR testing assesses the potential for reactive constituents that could lead to deleterious expansion in concrete. Throughout our operational history, RIG has not recorded ASR results approaching levels that would present a structural concern.
Geological Context
Cornwall’s geology is varied and historically linked to mining activity. It is therefore correct that certain mineralised materials can present risks if improperly assessed.
However, modern aggregate production is not comparable to historic building practices that gave rise to mundic-related structural failures decades ago.
Today’s regulatory controls, testing regimes, and documented supply chains provide a completely different level of oversight.
Responsible Industry Dialogue
It is vital that public and industry conversations remain balanced, evidence-led, and technically accurate.
Responsible recycling plays an essential role in:
- Less primary quarrying – Preserving our natural landscape
- Lower carbon emissions – Shorter transport distances, reduced processing
- Circular economy growth – Keeping resources in productive use
- Local job creation – Supporting our community’s economy
At RIG, we remain confident in the suitability and compliance of our products. We are always happy to discuss our processes, testing protocols, and quality controls with customers, engineers, and regulators.
If you would like further technical information, or to learn more about how modern recycled aggregates are produced and tested, please contact our team.