Performance of structural concrete with recycled coarse aggregate

Abstract

Depletion of natural coarse aggregate and disposal of construction and demolition waste are currently two problems of increasing magnitude, faced by infrastructure development sector. Recycling demolished concrete waste as an alternative source of coarse aggregate for the production of new concrete, can help solve simultaneously the growing waste disposal crisis and the problem of short supply of natural coarse aggregate for concrete. This practice leads to eagerly awaited economic incentives to the present generation, most importantly to conservation of natural resources to the posterity and preservation of environment to escape from climate disasters; this is the presently needed sustainable development. Under the pressure of these problems, several studies are reported in different countries on recycled coarse aggregate, commencing from the end of second world war. All these investigations dealt with mechanical properties, strength, workability, and durability of concrete made of recycled coarse aggregate. International scenario was also reviewed in some reports. However work on structural concrete with recycled aggregate, which is the end product is scarce, more so in India. The present investigation is presented on strength, and deformational properties of reinforced concrete beams in flexure made of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) and conventional coarse aggregate (CCA), for comparison. The performance of beams with RCA compared very favourably with that of beams made of CCA. Notwithstanding some minor deficiencies in the properties which can be effectively rectified, the RCA concrete need not inhibit its extensive use in structures, for a variety of benefits.