Reviewing the performance of concrete comprising recycled coarse aggregates using non-destructive tests

Abstract

Modern-day construction practices have increased the demand for new infrastructure that has led to the production of construction and demolition wastes (CDW). In India, CDW is normally dumped in landfills for many years, causing pollution and land abuse. One of the best realistic options to reduce the environmental concerns raised by its presence is its utilization in secondary construction. Extensive research has been carried out in the last two decades, wherein, recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) has been used as a partial or complete replacement of the natural coarse aggregates (NCA) in concrete. Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods are usually used to testify the performance without destroying or damaging samples. This study reviews the overall performance of vibrated concretes comprising RCA using NDT. Earlier investigations were based on testing specimens using NDTs such as ultra-sonic pulse velocity (UPV), electrical resistivity (ER), and rebound hammer (RH). With the help of this study, one can easily understand that the use of RCA has positive impacts on the strength characteristics of concrete on use up to a certain extent, while higher alterations resulted in degradation of the overall performance of concrete.