The potency of recycled aggregate in new concrete: a review

Anike, E E; Saidani, M; Ganjian, E; Tyrer, M and Olubanwo, A O (2019) The potency of recycled aggregate in new concrete: a review. Construction Innovation, 19(4), pp. 594-613. ISSN 1471-4175

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to review the effect of using recycled aggregates (RA) on the properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) following the steady rise in global demand for concrete and the large generation of construction and demolition waste. Design/methodology/approach: This study reviewed relevant literature of research work carried out by previous researchers, leading to a deeper understanding of the properties of both RA and RAC. The properties of RA and RAC reported in the various studies were then compared to their corresponding natural aggregate (NA) and natural aggregate concrete, as well as the specifications provided in different codes of practice. In addition, the mix design methods appropriate to RAC and the cost implication of using RA were reviewed. Findings: Findings show that the contribution of RA to strength appears inferior in comparison to NA. The shortcoming is attributed to the mortar attached to the RA, which raises its water absorption capacity and lowers its density relative to those of NA. However, it has been reported that the use of regulated quantity of RA, new mixing and proportioning methods, the addition of admixtures and strengthening materials such as steel fibres, can improve both mechanical and durability properties of RAC. Cost evaluation also showed that some savings can be realized by using RA instead of NA. Originality/value: This research serves as a guide for future works and suggests that the use of RA as aggregate in new concrete is technically possible, depending on the mix design method adopted.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: construction and demolition waste; mix design; natural aggregate; recycled aggregate; recycled aggregate concrete; steel fibres
Index terms: codes of practice, mix design, mortars (material), density, savings, aggregate, durability, strengthening, admixture, methodology, recycled aggregate, specification, water absorption, construction and demolition
Subjects: research methods, structural engineering, concrete and cementitious materials, health safety and environment, contractual condition, water management, regulatory law, materials science, waste management, building materials, material degradation and durability, economic analysis, analytical methods
Topics: Urban Studies, Legal Issues, Contract Administration, Engineering Principles, Construction Materials, Research Practice, Health and Safety, Business Strategy, Sustainability
Descriptive scope: 3 PCT

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here