Abstract: Microwave heating is a green, effective and sustainable technology, with the heating characteristics of immediate, volumetric, selective and low pollution presented. The recent interest in fundamentals and applications of microwave processing of rock and concrete is highlighted by many symposia, scholars and research groups all over the world due to its potential for significant process benefit. Many theoretical analyses, simulations and experimental tests were carried out subject to the heating mechanism and properties. The review systematically summarizes the important research results from previous studies. The mechanism and advantages of microwave assisted breaking and the influence factors relating to the microwave processing efficiency were discussed. The research status and application prospect of microwave assisted rock breaking and drilling, concrete aggregate recycling, and mineral sorting were discussed. The research focus and future research direction in related fields are discussed in order to provide a reference and recourse for promoting the application and development of microwave heating technology in engineering.