1	An Overview of Gypsum Drywall Recycling
2	What is Gypsum Drywall? A major component of modern buildings Consists of a gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) core (~90%) and a paper facing and backing (~10%)
3	Gypsum Drywall is a Large Component of Construction and Demolition Debris
4	Why is Gypsum Drywall Recycling Important? Conserves natural resources Saves landfill space Helps prevent environmental problems caused when drywall is disposed in landfills
5	Odor Problems at Landfills When gypsum drywall is disposed in landfills, bacteria can convert the sulfate in the gypsum to hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and other reduced sulfur compounds. The H₂S and reduced sulfur compounds have very strong odors. Many C&D debris landfills have experienced odor complaints attributed to drywall disposal
6	Can Gypsum Drywall be Recycled? Yes! Several gypsum drywall recycling facilities are in operation in North America
7	What are the Markets for Recycled Gypsum Drywall? Several markets have been developed for the gypsum recovered from drywall. These include: Manufacture of new drywall Use in cement production As a soil amendment or plant nutrient In the manufacture of fertilizer An amendment to composting systems Animal bedding
8	Scrap Drywall being Processed at a Drywall Manufacturing Facility
9	Paper separated from gypsum drywall incorporated into a composting operation
10	Peanut Crops Grown using Recycled Gypsum Drywall as an Amendment
11	What is Involved in Setting up a Recycling Program for Gypsum Drywall? Several factors must be considered: Collection and storage Availability of markets Transportation to market Processing Environmental and permit consideration
12	Drywall Collection and Storage Scrap drywall is typically mixed with other C&D debris components. Some recyclers provide separate containers for drywall storage, while others collect the drywall scraps directly from the site after generation.
13	Drywall Processing Processing methods vary from grinders to trommel screens. Dust is an issue that must be addressed. Local regulatory agencies should be consulted to determine permit requirements.
14	Environmental & Permitting Issues All waste processing and recycling operations must comply with applicable regulatory requirements. If drywall from demolition projects is used, sampling may be needed to address lead and asbestos concerns.
15	Where to Learn More GypsumRecycling.org contains a more detailed discussion of all of the topics presented in this general overview. Links are provided to available literature, existing recycling companies, and state regulatory contacts. Return to www.gypsumrecycling.org