Effect of recycled aggregate quality on the bond behavior and shear strength of RC members

Abstract

During the aggregate crushing process, natural aggregate and clinging mortar from existing concrete will inevitably produce small cracks and weak bonds between the aggregate and the existing cement mortar. The weaknesses of the existing cement mortar, adhered to a natural aggregate, negatively affect the properties of a recycled aggregate concrete, which prevents its application in reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Recycled aggregate can be classified into several categories, according to its physical and mechanical properties. The properties of concrete incorporated with the recycled aggregate of various qualities can be controlled, and the variability in its strength can also be reduced. This study aims to promote the application of recycled aggregate by investigating the effects of recycled aggregate quality (i.e., water absorption and the number of fine particles) classified by the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) on material properties, mechanical properties, and shear behavior of RC beams with recycled aggregate.