Recycled Aggregate Replacement Research Articles

Mechanical Properties of Recycled Concrete with Polypropylene Fiber and Its Bonding Performance with Rebars

This paper explores the influence of polypropylene fiber on the mechanical properties of recycled concrete and the bonding performance between recycled concrete and steel bars. The results indicate that the compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of concrete decrease with the increase in the replacement rate of recycled aggregate. When the replacement rate of recycled aggregate was 100 %, the compressive strength of concrete decreased by 25.0%, while the splitting tensile strength of concrete decreased by 21.7 %. The compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of recycled aggregate concrete show a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with increasing fiber content. When the fiber content is 0.09 %, the compressive strength and tensile strength of recycled aggregate concrete are optimal. The bond strength of recycled concrete pullout specimens with fiber is higher than that of recycled concrete pullout specimens without fiber, while the slip of recycled concrete pullout specimens with fiber is lower than that of recycled concrete pullout specimens without fiber. The maximum improvement in bonding performance between recycled concrete and rebars with a 50 % recycled aggregate replacement rate is 13.7 %, and the maximum improvement in bonding performance between recycled concrete and rebars with a 100 % recycled aggregate replacement rate is 11.8 %. The bond strength shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with increasing fiber content, but the degree of decrease was not significant, while the slip shows a trend of first decreasing and then increasing with increasing fiber content. Compared to the compressive strength of concrete, the splitting tensile strength can better reflect the bond strength between concrete and rebar. The nonlinear relationship between the bond strength, compressive strength, and splitting tensile strength of recycled concrete is established. This study can effectively improve the mechanical properties of recycled concrete, expand the application scope of recycled concrete technology, and promote the sustainable development of the construction industry.

Enhancing the engineering characteristics of sustainable recycled aggregate concrete using fly ash, metakaolin and silica fume

The present global environment is facing growing issues linked to production of concrete, mostly due to high consumption of concrete as the dominating construction material globally. In today's climate of environmental sustainability, recycled concrete production using RA (recycled aggregates) requires a more holistic approach. This study examined how recycled aggregate (RA), metakaolin, silica fume and fly ash affect mechanical characteristics (compressive strength, split tensile strength), and durability characteristics (acid resistance, absorption, sorptivity) of concrete. The objective of this investigation is to figure out how the potential of RA based concrete can be improved so that they can be used to their maximum extent. To achieve the desired outcome, the study involved testing three distinct groups of concrete samples, each containing different percentages (25%, 50%, and 75%) of recycled aggregate (RA) with a constant amount of silica fume, (25 kg/m3). The first group was used as the control mix, while the second group incorporated 10% fly ash, and the third group included 15% metakaolin. The findings of this research show that the RA concrete mechanical properties as well as durability can be significantly improved by incorporating 15% metakaolin and 10% fly ash. The investigation involves the examination of all ternary blends within two distinct acidic environments, specifically a 5% hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution and sulfuric acid (H2SO4). Both the ternary mixes (metakaolin and fly ash) with the combination of silica improve all characteristics. The quality assurance, cost analysis and the reduction of CO2 emissions are carried out, utilizing RA (recycled aggregates) as a substitute for NA (natural aggregate). In case of producing superior structural concrete, it is recommended based on results to limit the replacement percentage of recycled aggregate (RA) to a maximum of 50% in presence of 10% fly ash and 15% metakaolin, otherwise the RA replacement percentage should not be more than 25%.

UTILIZATION OF RECYCLED AGGREGATES IN CONCRETE: CASE STUDY

The increase in carbon emissions is a growing concern for the sustainability in our society, particularly as energy consumption rises, leading to annual CO2 releases into the environment. The construction sector, responsible for utilizing a significant portion of the Earth's yearly extracted raw materials, significantly contributes to this issue. After the life cycle of a structure, this one is often transformed or demolished for new developments, generating large amounts of construction debris. Most concrete debris is further processed to create recycled aggregates, which are commonly used for road construction or as filling material. Nonetheless, efforts are underway to promote material circularity by reusing these aggregates back into concrete, reducing concrete downcycling and disposal in landfills. Hamburg's "Musterbude" project in 2022 stands as an example of material circularity, showcasing the sustainable use of recycled aggregates in concrete. Seven concrete mixes were formulated; two conforming to German recycled concrete standards with 45% and 35% recycled aggregate replacement. Others, including the so-called "Hamburger Mische," departed from these standards, incorporating varied recycled materials like crushed bricks and 100% mixed C&DW aggregates. The findings provided valuable insights for policymakers, engineers, and researchers, fostering a transition towards a more circular economy in the construction sector while minimizing environmental impact.

Effects of waste rubber particles on workability, mechanical, and sound insulation properties of recycled aggregate mortar

The influence mechanism of waste rubber particles (WRPs) on the workability, mechanical properties, and sound insulation performance of recycled aggregate sound insulation mortar (RCM) were investigated. According to the principle of volume fraction replacement of recycled fine aggregate by 0 to 50%, WRPs with a particle size of 1–4 mm were incorporated in various mixtures of RCM. Each RCM mixture was tested for workability, mechanical, and sound insulation performance. Mercury intrusion porosimetry was used to analyze the distribution of pores and their sizes inside the material, and X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze the characteristics of the interfacial transition zones (ITZs) between the rubber particles and the cement paste. The results showed that, owing to the hydrophobicity of WRPs, greater WRPs content led to greater fluidity of the mortar mix and a smaller water retention rate. Notably, the rubber in the mortar did not contribute to the hydration reactivity of the cement paste, but it changed the crystal morphology and pore structure of ITZ hydration products. The RCM incorporating 3–10% WRPs produced the optimal pore structure through the aggregate effect, which increased its overall compactness and mechanical performance. Further increase of WRP content significantly improved the sound insulation performance while significantly reducing the strength. Moreover, there was a clear logarithmic relationship between the strength and impact sound level index. This new knowledge can be used to prepare RCM that meets the actual strength and sound insulation requirements of the floor. Thus, the resource utilization of solid waste can be expanded.

Evaluation of residual bond behaviour between rebar and recycled aggregate concrete after high-temperature exposure followed by water spray cooling

This paper presents an evaluation of the residual bond behaviour between rebar and recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) using granite natural coarse aggregates and different recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) replacement levels (δ = 0%, 30%, 50%, and 100%) for both pull-out and cubic specimens. After high-temperature exposure (T = 200, 400, and 600 ℃) followed by water spray cooling, the results revealed a consistent decline in bond strength and compression strength with increasing temperature. Compared to ambient conditions, bond strength and compression strength decreased by 65.2% ∼ 77.8% and 53.2% ∼ 58.4%, respectively, after exposure to 600 ℃. The reduction rate of residual bond strength changed significantly at about 400 ℃. There was a linear relationship between RAC compression strength and rebar–RAC bond strength after high temperature exposure followed by water spray cooling. With increasing RCA replacement levels, the relative bond strength gradually improved at the same temperature. Based on the regression analysis, empirical formula for the rebar–RAC bond strength and bond–slip relationship models were proposed, all taking into account RCA replacement levels and temperature.

Experimental study on the triaxial compression mechanical performance of basalt fiber-reinforced recycled aggregate concrete after exposure to high temperature

The use of basalt fiber-reinforced recycled aggregate concrete (BFRRC) can effectively treat waste concrete and reduce the consumption of natural resources. BFRRC is often in complex triaxial compression in engineering applications and may exposure to high temperature conditions. To evaluate the conventional triaxial compression mechanical performance of BFRRC after exposure to high temperature, 324 cylindrical specimens were produced. The specimens were designed and fabricated by varying several experimental parameters: the recycled coarse aggregate replacement ratio, basalt fiber dosage, temperature, and lateral confining pressure. The specimens previously exposed to high temperature were subjected to conventional triaxial compression tests and the effects of various experimental parameters on the mechanical performance indexes of BFRRC were analyzed. The results show that the peak stress and elastic modulus of BFRRC all raise with greater fiber dosage and confining pressure but decrease with higher replacement ratio and temperature. The maximum increase of the peak stress and elastic modulus is 352.45% and 224.59%, respectively. The peak strain of BFRRC has two variation trends of gradual increase and gradual decrease with the replacement ratio rising. And the peak strain gradually grows with the temperature and confining pressure increasing. The fiber dosage, however, does not exert the considerable impact on the peak strain. The maximum increase of the peak strain is 132.22%. The research provides a scientific basis for the triaxial mechanical performance, fire resistance design, and post-disaster assessment of BFRRC, and promotes the popularization and application of BFRRC in building structures.

Freeze-thaw, chloride penetration and carbonation resistance of natural and recycled aggregate concrete containing rice husk ash as replacement of cement

This study investigated the effect of using rice husk ash (RHA) as replacement of cement (i.e., replacement ratios of 0%, 10%, 20% and 30%) on the durability of natural aggregate concrete (NAC) and recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). We examined the freeze-thaw resistance, chloride penetration resistance, and carbonation resistance of NAC and RAC (with 50% recycled coarse aggregate replacement ratio). It was found that during the freeze-thaw process, both NAC and RAC showed an overall weight increase, which was further enhanced by the addition of RHA. Meanwhile, the compressive strength of NAC was reduced more obviously than that of RAC after 100 freeze-thaw cycles. A replacement of 10% cement with RHA resulted in larger reduction in strength loss for NAC (by 36%) compared to RAC (by 4%). As the RHA replacement ratio increased, the chloride penetration resistance of RACs was improved more rapidly than that of NACs, and the difference in the total charge passed between NACs and RACs also decreased considerably. In addition, an increase in the RHA replacement ratio led to an increase in the carbonation coefficient of NAC. Conversely, in the case of RAC, the carbonation coefficient displayed an initial decrease at a 10% RHA replacement ratio, followed by a subsequent upward trend, indicating a positive impact of RHA on preventing carbonation for RAC.

Study on the mechanical properties and microstructure of recycled brick aggregate concrete with waste fiber

Abstract Recycled concrete technology can promote the sustainable development of the construction industry, but the insufficient mechanical properties of recycled concrete have become a key constraint on its development. By adding waste fibers, the mechanical properties of recycled concrete can be improved, and the problem of disposing of waste polypropylene fibers can be solved. In this article, the effects of recycled brick aggregate content and waste fiber content on the mechanical properties and microstructures of recycled brick aggregate concrete through macroscopic mechanical experiments and microstructure experiments are investigated. The results show that the addition of recycled brick aggregate reduces the mechanical properties of concrete; when the content of recycled brick aggregate is 100%, the compressive strength and splitting tensile strength decrease by 22.04 and 20.00%, respectively. The addition of waste fibers can improve the mechanical properties of recycled brick aggregate concrete, but it is necessary to control the contents of waste fibers in a certain range. When the content of waste fibers is 0.08%, the best improvement effect on the mechanical properties of concrete is achieved; the compressive strength of concrete with a 50% (100%) recycled aggregate replacement rate increases by 6.06% (8.90%), while the splitting tensile strength of concrete with a 50% (100%) recycled aggregate replacement rate increases by 2.30% (6.16%). Through microstructural analysis, the mechanism by which waste fiber improves the mechanical properties of recycled brick aggregate concrete is revealed. The addition of waste fibers has the effect of strengthening the framework inside the recycled brick aggregate concrete, forming a good structural stress system and allowing the recycled brick aggregate concrete to continue to bear loads after cracking. In this study, waste brick aggregate and waste fiber are effectively utilized, which can not only reduce pollution to the environment but also realize the sustainable utilization of resources.

Axial compressive behavior of steel reinforced GGBS-RFBP-FA ternary composite geopolymer recycled fireclay brick aggregates concrete columns

In this study, the axial compressive behaviors of steel reinforced ternary composite geopolymer recycled fireclay brick aggregates concrete columns were investigated. The ternary binder material used in this study was produced by the combination of industrial by-products (i.e., granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), recycled fireclay brick powder (RFBP), and fly ash (FA)) and alkali-activated solution. A total of 60 square steel reinforced composite columns (with a 200-mm side length and 600-mm height) were tested under axial compression. The tested variables included the mix proportion of ternary composite geopolymer concrete with recycled aggregates containing recycled fireclay brick aggregates (GRA-RFBAC), the recycled coarse aggregate replacement ratios (0%, 30%, 50%, 70%, 100%), the longitudinal reinforcement ratios (1.13%, 2.01%), and the hoop stirrup reinforcement ratios (0.81%, 1.62%). Each group contained three identical samples. The ductility, failure mode, and axial load-bearing capacity of the columns were recorded and analyzed. The experimental results revealed that the damage progression and patterns of steel reinforced GRA-RFBAC columns were similar to those of ordinary Portland cement based recycled concrete columns. The ultimate bearing capacity of steel reinforced GRA-RFBAC columns decreased with an increasing replacement ratio of recycled coarse aggregate and increased with an increasing reinforcement ratio of longitudinal and hoop stirrups. Meanwhile, the stress-strain model of steel reinforced GRA-RFBAC columns under axial compression was proposed based on the experimental results. The present study suggests an efficient and environmental-friendly compression member.

Circular recycled aggregate concrete-filled stainless steel tube stub columns after exposure to fire: Experiments, simulations, and design

This paper presents experimental and numerical investigations into the post-fire cross-section compressive behaviour and resistances of circular recycled aggregate concrete-filled stainless steel tube (RACFSST) stub columns. Twelve stub column specimens, fabricated from concretes with three recycled coarse aggregate replacement ratios (0%, 35% and 70%), were tested after exposure to the ISO-834 standard fire for 0 min (i.e. at ambient temperature), 15 min, 30 min and 45 min. The experimental investigation included heating and cooling of specimens, cylinder tests and post-fire tensile coupon tests and stub column tests. The test results, including load–end shortening curves, failure loads and failure modes, were fully reported and the initial compressive stiffnesses and confinement effect were discussed. The numerical investigation was subsequently conducted, where thermal and mechanical finite element models were developed and validated against the test results and then used to perform parametric studies to generate further numerical data. Given the absence of design codes for stainless steel–recycled aggregate concrete composite structures after exposure to fire, the relevant design rules for circular natural aggregate concrete-filled carbon steel tube stub columns at ambient temperature, as set out in the European code, Australia/New Zealand standard and American specification, were assessed, using post-fire material properties, for their applicability to circular RACFSST stub columns after exposure to fire, based on the test and numerical data. The assessment results generally revealed that the European code and the Australian/New Zealand standard led to an acceptable level of design accuracy and consistency, while the American specification resulted in rather conservative and scattered post-fire cross-section compression resistance predictions.

Post-fire behaviour and resistances of square recycled aggregate concrete-filled stainless steel tube stub columns

Experimental and numerical studies on the cross-section compressive behaviour and residual resistances of square recycled aggregate concrete-filled stainless steel tube (RACFSST) stub columns after exposure to fire are reported in this paper. An experimental programme was firstly carried out on twelve stub column specimens with three recycled coarse aggregate replacement ratios (0%, 35% and 70%) after exposure to the ISO-834 standard fire for 0 min (i.e. at ambient temperature), 15 min, 30 min and 45 min. The test results, including load–end shortening curves, failure loads and failure modes, were presented, with the initial compressive stiffness and confinement effect analysed. The experimental programme was followed by a numerical modelling programme, where thermal and mechanical finite element models were developed and validated against the test results and afterwards used to conduct parametric studies to generate additional numerical data over a wide range of cross-section dimensions. Based on the test and numerical data, the relevant design rules for square natural aggregate concrete-filled carbon steel tube stub columns at ambient temperature, as specified in the European code, Australia/New Zealand standard and American specification, were evaluated, using post-fire material properties, for their applicability to square RACFSST stub columns after exposure to fire. The evaluation results generally revealed that the European code and Australian/New Zealand standard led to a good level of design accuracy, while the American specification resulted in slightly conservative post-fire cross-section compression resistance predictions.

The durability of spray steel fiber-reinforced recycled coarse aggregate concrete

To boost the application scope of coarse recycled aggregates (RA) with particle size in the range of 5–10 mm, a spray steel fiber reinforced coarse aggregate concrete (SSFRCAC) is developed, and the impact of cube compressive strength, RA replacement ratio, and steel fiber (SF) volume fraction on the durability of SSFRCAC is comprehensively examined through carbonization, sulfate attack, penetration, and freeze-thaw cycle tests. The anti-carbonation test results reveal that as the RA replacement ratio increases, the carbonation resistance of SSFRCAC decreases. The best anti-carbonation performance is achieved when the SF volume fraction is 1%. Additionally, a formula for calculating the carbonation depth is established. Based on the experimental data, the dynamic elastic modulus is recommended as the measurement standard for the freeze-thaw resistance cycle test. The sulfate resistance test results indicate that as the RA replacement ratio increases, the Sulfate Resistance coefficient also increases. SF block the thermal cracks of specimens and corrosion products as well as the formation of expansion cracks, so the corrosion resistance coefficient gradually tends to a certain stable level. According to the anti-permeability test results, the increase in the RA replacement ratio can suppress the anti-permeability performance. When the SF volume fraction is 1%, the concrete has the highest density and the best anti-permeability performance. Overall, the durability of SSFRCAC is found to be much better than that of general recycled SF Recycle aggregates concrete, which makes it more suitable for practical engineering applications.

The influence of recycled aggregate on the properties of geopolymeric recycled concrete: A comprehensive review

This paper offers a comprehensive review of geopolymeric recycled concrete (GRC) research, particularly focusing on mechanical properties, durability, microstructure, and the interfacial transition zone (ITZ). The study emphasizes the influence of recycled aggregate (RA) content on GRC performance. Findings indicate that higher RA content leads to a gradual reduction in GRC’s compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths, elastic modulus, and toughness. The elastic modulus is most affected, followed by compressive strength, while tensile strength experiences the least decline. Moreover, increased RA content is associated with elevated water absorption, decreased resistance to chloride ion permeability, sulfate corrosion, acid, frost, and carbonization in geopolymer concrete. The integration of RA creates more intricate ITZs in geopolymer concrete, resulting in reduced bonding strength and a looser, more porous microstructure. However, the use of geopolymers can mitigate these effects by enhancing bonding in ITZs. The paper also presents a statistical analysis of compressive strength test results from various studies and proposes a preliminary method for estimating the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete with different RA replacement rates.

Developing a sustainable self-compacting geopolymer concrete with 100% geopolymer-coated recycled concrete aggregate replacement

PurposeConcrete, the second most used material in the world, surpassed only by water, relies on a vast amount of cement. The process of cement production emits substantial amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). Consequently, it is crucial to search for cement alternatives. Geopolymer concrete (GC) uses industrial by-product material instead of traditional cement, which not only reduces CO2 emissions but also enhances concrete durability. On the other hand, the disposal of concrete waste in the landfills represents a significant environmental challenge, emphasising the urgent need for sustainable solutions. This study aimed to investigate waste concrete's best form and rate as the alternative aggregates in self-compacting and ambient-cured GC to preserve natural resources, reduce construction and demolition waste and decrease pertinent CO2 emissions. The binding material employed in this research encompasses fly ash, slag, micro fly ash and anhydrous sodium metasilicate as an alkali activator. It also introduces the best treatment method to improve the recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) quality.Design/methodology/approachA total of25%, 50% and 100% of coarse aggregates are replaced with RCAs to cast self-compacting geopolymer concrete (SCGC) and assess the impact of RCA on the fresh, hardened and water absorption properties of the ambient-cured GC. Geopolymer slurry was used for coating RCAs and the authors examined the effect of one-day and seven-day cured coated RCA. The mechanical properties (compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and modulus of elasticity), rheological properties (slump flow, T500 and J-ring) and total water absorption of RCA-based SCGC were studied. The microstructural and chemical compositions of the concrete mixes were studied by the methods of energy dispersive X-Ray and scanning electron microscopy.FindingsIt is evident from the test observations that 100% replacement of natural aggregate with coated RCA using geopolymer slurry containing fly ash, slag, micro fly ash and anhydrous sodium metasilicate cured for one day before mixing enhances the concrete's quality and complies with the flowability requirements. Assessment is based on the fresh and hardened properties of the SCGC with various RCA contents and coating periods. The fresh properties of the mix with a seven-day curing time for coated RCA did not meet the requirements for self-compacting concrete, while this mix demonstrated better compressive strength (31.61 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (15.39 GPa) compared to 29.36 MPa and 9.8 GPa, respectively, for the mix with one-day cured coated RCA. However, incorporating one-day-cured coated RCA in SCGC demonstrated better splitting tensile strength (2.32 MPa) and water absorption (15.16%).Research limitations/implicationsA potential limitation of this study on SCGC with coated RCAs is the focus on the short-term behaviour of this concrete. This limited time frame may not meet the long-term requirements for ensuring the sustained durability of the structures throughout their service life.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the treatment technique of coating RCA with geopolymer slurry for casting SCGC.

Enhancing performance and sustainability: CRB600H high-strength reinforcement in recycled concrete

This paper addresses the urgent need for high-performance, eco-friendly construction materials due to increasing urbanization. It introduces CRB600H high-strength reinforcement to enhance recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) beam performance. Comparative analysis with conventional concrete (CC) beams demonstrates RAC's inferior shear performance, which CRB600H reinforcement effectively improves. A novel optimization method for high-strength reinforcement is established based on equal strength principles, demonstrating cost-efficiency. Economic analysis reveals that despite rising production costs with increased recycled aggregate replacement ratios, CRB600H reinforcement substantially reduces expenses, even when more expensive than HRB400 reinforcement. The environmental analysis reveals that the CRB600H reinforcement significantly influences the environmental performance of reinforced concrete beams. Utilizing 100% RAC beam with CRB600H as an illustrative example, the contribution rates of steel bars to Global Warming Potential (GWP), Acidification Potential (AP), Eutrophication Potential (EP), and Cumulative Energy Demand (CED) are determined as 39.30%, 56.85%, 51.87%, and 55.76%, respectively. In comparison to CC beam with HRB400, the 100% RAC beam with CRB600H exhibit reductions of 10.27%, 18.59%, 19.03%, and 16.93% in terms of GWP, AP, EP, and CED, respectively. In conclusion, CRB600H reinforcement offers cost-effective, eco-friendly solutions, promising significant advancements in RAC applications.

Optimisation and prediction of compressive properties for concrete containing recycled aggregates and rice husk ash using response surface methodology (RSM)

AbstractRice husk ash (RHA), an agricultural by‐product, has been added as supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in concrete mixture to improve the compressive properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) in recent years. This study aimed to optimise the mixture design of RAC considering two variables: the replacement ratio (wt.%) of recycled aggregate (RA) to natural aggregate (NA) with three levels (0%, 50% and 100%) and the replacement ratio (wt.%) of RHA to cement with three levels (0%, 10% and 20%). Compression test was implemented at concrete age of 28 days based on the full factorial experiment. By means of response surface methodology (RSM), the optimised RA replacement ratio and RHA replacement ratio can be calculated with respect to the compressive strength and E‐modulus at 28 days, and vice versa the compressive strength and E‐modulus at 28 days of RAC containing RHA can also be predicted. According to response surface modelling, the compressive strength reaches the maximum value when the RA replacement ratio is 0% and the RHA replacement ratio is 7%, and the E‐modulus would reach the maximum when the RA replacement ratio is 17% and the RHA replacement ratio is 7%. The determination coefficient (R2) and adjusted coefficient (R2adj) for the compressive strength model are 0.9632 and 0.9544 respectively, and for the E‐modulus model are 0.9319 and 0.9157 respectively, showing that the models developed by RSM are relatively well correlated with the experimental results.

Effect of alkali activated limestone-silica fume blended precursor on performance enhancement of recycled aggregate concrete

The utilization of Recycled Aggregates (RA) from Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste, has been reported to be an efficient way of dealing with the environmental issues encountered by our planet nowadays. However, due to the poor quality of RA, its incorporation in high – grade civil engineering applications been limited. It is essential that adequate process of treatment methods be incorporated into the production of RA to enhance its properties and optimize its use. This study is carried out to determine the effects of an alkaline NaOH activated by limestone powder (LSP) and silica fume (SF) to improve the properties of various concrete mixes produced with either recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), or recycled cement block aggregate (CBA). Fifteen mixes were designed to examine the effects of different parameters, RA replacement levels, various w/c ratios and different enhancement methods on the properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). The study examined the effects of the proposed enhancement method on the physical characteristics of RCA and CBA. Compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, pull-out, and water absorption of the different concrete mixes were measured to determine the effectiveness of the enhancement method proposed. The enhanced RAC produced by CBA and RCA showed an increased 28-day compressive strength at 0.35 w/c ratio of up to 51 MPa and 44 MPa, respectively, suitable for structural applications. The flexural strength, tensile splitting strength, and bonding strength values at 0.35 w/c ratio of the enhanced RAC produced with treated CBA were 28%, 6%, and 8% higher than that of the RAC produced with treated CBA. Whereas, the flexural strength, tensile strength, and bonding strength of the enhanced RAC produced with treated RCA were 1%, 3%, and 5% higher compared to the RAC produced with treated RCA. The improved mechanical performance of the enhanced RAC produced by CBA or RCA was attributed to the effects of the geopolymer solution treatment in filling and sealing the voids and gaps on the CBA and RCA surface, leading to a better packed structure, reducing the water absorption, and improving the aggregate impact value. The treatment technique proposed can be a powerful tool for promoting the use of RA in the construction industry and expanding its application.

Axial compression behavior and stress–strain relationship of slurry-wrapping treatment recycled aggregate concrete-filled steel tube short columns

Abstract The utilization of recycled concrete can effectively solve the problems of large accumulations of construction waste and the constant consumption of natural aggregates. Slurry-wrapping modification and concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs) are effective approaches to enhance the utilization ratio of recycled concrete. The study involved 4 ordinary CFST columns and 16 slurry-wrapping recycled aggregate concrete-filled steel tube (SRACFST) columns. The variable parameters included the slurry-wrapping recycled aggregate replacement ratio and the section form. The result shows that the ultimate strength of the specimens reached the minimum and maximum at 25 and 100% aggregate replacement ratio. The favorable strength performance of the SRACFST columns is attributed to the dominant positive effect of the slurry-wrapping treatment in reducing matrix porosity over the negative impact of the recycled aggregate’s complex interface transition zone. Due to the hoop factor, the residual bearing ratio peaks at a 25% substitution ratio. Four design standards were used to predict the ultimate strength, with GB50936 and EC4 yielding more accurate estimations, while AISC360-10 and AIJ provided conservative estimations. This study presents the equations of the stress–strain curve for the whole axial compression process, which can be directly applied in the theoretical and numerical analysis of RACFST columns.

Treated recycled coarse aggregate concrete: A new mixture proportioning method based on packing densities

In this paper, recycled coarse and fine aggregate collected from concrete rubble are treated with acid to remove the adhered cement mortar on the aggregates. These treated recycled aggregates both in fine and coarse aggregates are used to prepare concrete with water-cement ratio of 0.55 based on newly developed mix design method using packing densities. In this study two different recycled coarse aggregate sizes of 10 mm (40 % by mass fraction) and 20 mm (60 % by mass fraction) are used for various replacement levels of natural aggregates. The ratios of aggregates mixture of CA20, CA10 and FA are 38.4:25.6:36.0 by mass. For various packing densities, the recycled aggregates content is evaluated. Quantities for recycled aggregate concrete mixes made with 100 % recycled fine aggregate (RFA) and various replacement percentages of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) for 0.55 w/c ratio are arrived at. Workability of concrete made with 100 % RFA in terms of slump (mm) can be enhanced by adding 5 % GGBS by mass of cement. Compressive strengths of concrete made with 0 to 100 % replacement of treated recycled fine and coarse aggregate ranges from 27.21 to 19.05 MPa. But when cement or silica fume is added to the recycled aggregate concrete then the compressive strengths are comparable to that of concrete made with natural aggregates.

Effect of heavy-weight recycled materials on radiation shielding and properties of high-strength concrete with CEM III

This research aims to study the effect of replacing up to 100% of recycled coarse aggregates with heavyweight aggregates. In addition to the effect of adding heavyweight aggregate slag on the efficiency of shielding against radiation and on the mechanical physical properties and elevated temperature of heavyweight high-strength concrete (HWHSC). In this investigation, HWHSC mixtures incorporate lead slag (LS), copper slag (CS), and steel slag (SS) as coarse aggregate. Recycled heavyweight coarse aggregates are added to concrete mixtures at volume ratios of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Slump test, compressive strength, flexural strength, tensile strength, elastic modulus, and bulk density tests were carried out. Three different gamma-ray energies at 137Cs 662, 60Co 1173, and 60Co 1332 (keV) sources were used to evaluate the mass attenuation coefficient, linear attenuation coefficient, half and tenth-value layer, and mean free path. To evaluate the impact of elevated temperature on density, compressive strength, and radiation shielding properties, concrete mixtures were exposed to 22 °C, 300 °C, 500 °C, and 800 °C. Compared to basalt-based concrete, heavy-weight concrete (HWC) incorporating LS, CS, and SS coarse aggregate has a significantly higher density. The results show a good effect of recycled heavyweight coarse aggregates on fresh, mechanical, and radiation-shielding properties. The density of the developed high-strength concrete (HSC) mixes ranges between 2400 and 3370 kg/m3, and the increase in recycled heavyweight coarse aggregates replacement ratio up to 75% increased all mechanical characteristics of HWC mixtures. Using LS as a replacement of basalt by 75% resulted in the highest compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and elastic modulus of 105.8 MPa, 14.2 MPa, 19.5 MPa, and 45.76 GPa, respectively. Compared to basalt, LS, CS, and SS eliminate the impact of elevated temperatures on HSHWC strength. The best radiation protection properties were achieved with the complete replacement of basalt by LS.