A review of the mechanical properties and durability of basalt fiber recycled concrete

Abstract

Basalt fiber (BF) is an emerging environmentally-friendly fiber. Adding basalt fiber can improve the deficient recycled concrete's poor mechanical properties and durability. By reviewing nearly 120 related papers, the effects of variables such as BF content and length (0–1.5%, 9–18 mm), recycled aggregate substitution rate (0–100%), and cement mix ratio (w/b, 0.25–0.45) on the mechanical and durability properties of basalt fiber-reinforced recycled concrete (BFRAC) were discussed. Due to the presence of vulnerable interfacial transition zones, the mechanical properties of recycled concrete (RAC) continuously deteriorate over time. However, by adding an appropriate amount of basalt fiber, it is possible to improve these structural defects by forming a network structure that enhances cracking resistance within the matrix and improves interface bonding strength among other benefits. Consequently, this significantly improves the overall mechanical properties of RAC. Additionally, while incorporating recycled aggregate (RA) may reduce compressive strength initially, this deficiency can be mitigated through the proper inclusion of fibers in RAC mixtures. Optimal compressive strength for RAC is achieved with a replacement ratio between 25–50% and a fiber content ranging from 0.2–0.3%. Furthermore, properly incorporating fibers into RAC greatly enhances splitting tensile strength and flexural strength as well; specifically achieving optimal splitting tensile strength with a replacement ratio between 40%− 50%, a fiber content at 0.3%, and utilizing fibers with lengths measuring approximately 12 mm long. The primary cause for poor frost resistance in RAC lies within numerous micro-cracks and pores present in RA aggregates which lead to high water absorption rates ultimately reaching critical water saturation points resulting in freeze-thaw damage occurrences during exposure to freezing conditions. When exposed to sulfate attack, RAC undergoes a chemical reaction with sulfate ions present in the concrete, leading to the formation of numerous expansion products that negatively impact concrete performance. Progressive dehydration of hydration products under high-temperature conditions leads to a porous structure within the concrete matrix. Incorporating fibers can impede microcrack expansion during freeze-thaw, sulfate attack, and high-temperature environments, thus enhancing the erosion resistance of RAC. Compared to conventional concrete, interfacial bonding in RAC is less tight and more vulnerable to damage in complex environments. Current research on RAC suggests that the mechanism behind its damage under complex freeze-thaw load coupling environments remains unclear. It is recommended that future studies combine large-scale component tests with computational simulations to address this issue.