Robotic systems for closed-loop construction: a bibliometric analysis of construction demolition waste management

Abstract

Robotic and automated systems present transformative potential for addressing construction and demolition waste (CDW) challenges through enhanced sorting, deconstruction, and material recovery. However, research at the intersection of robotics and closed-loop construction remains fragmented, lacking a comprehensive synthesis of trends, collaboration patterns, and technological evolution. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 36 peer-reviewed articles (2015-2026) retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science following PRISMA guidelines, employing VOSviewer for keyword co-occurrence, bibliographic coupling, and collaboration network analysis. Results reveal exponential publication growth since 2021, with peak output in 2024-2025 driven by advances in artificial intelligence and computer vision. China, Australia, and Hong Kong emerge as leading contributors within Asia-Pacific and European collaborative networks. Keyword analysis identifies five primary research clusters: robotic sorting and grasping technologies, computer vision for waste recognition, deconstruction and disassembly systems, digital enablers (BIM, digital twins, IoT), and circular economy frameworks. Despite significant progress, critical gaps persist in perception robustness under real-world conditions, manipulation of heterogeneous materials, and deconstruction system integration for component reuse, human-robot collaboration frameworks, and economic validation. This review provides researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with a systematic foundation for advancing robotic closed-loop construction toward sustainable, intelligent waste management.