Mechanical and Durability Properties of Recycled Aggregate Concrete

Abstract

This paper investigates how the use of construction and demolition waste can affect the durability and affect the mechanical performance of concrete. tests such as compressive strength, tensile strength by diametral compression and modulus of elasticity were performed. Regarding durability, tests such as water immersion, void content and specific mass, water absorption by capillarity, electrical resistivity, the penetration depth of chloride ions, accelerated carbonation and a test evaluating the synergic effect of carbon dioxide and chloride ion penetration were performed. The coarse natural aggregate was replaced with coarse recycled aggregate in concrete mixes at the following ratios: 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%. The results indicate that the parameters of the concrete produced with recycled aggregate, especially up to 50% replacement level, meet the concrete quality requirements, regarding the mechanical properties and durability.