Appraisal of processing techniques for recycled aggregates in concrete

Abstract

Due to depletion of natural aggregates the need for the usage of recycled aggregate in concrete has gained significance. In this regard, the present study is an attempt to evaluate the performance of M20 grade of concrete made with 100% recycled aggregate processed using various techniques. Handpicked aggregate from concrete rubble is used to prepare recycled aggregate concrete. The use of chemical admixture is mandatory to compensate the extra water (3 to 6%) required by the RCA (Recycled Aggregates). RCA treated with calcite mineral precipitating bacterial suspension enhances its surface permeability. RCA exposed to different acid concentrations improved the surface of the aggregate with the removal of the loosely adhered mortar. In thermal – mechanical method the recycled aggregates from rubble are heated in microwave to 300°C to remove adhered mortar from the aggregate and placed in a rotating drum containing iron balls. In chemical– mechanical method the recycled aggregate is exposed to Na2So4 and is subjected to freeze-thaw cycles to create mechanical to separate adhered mortar from RCA. In acid soaking beneficiation method the mortar around RCA is removed by immersing them in 5% HCl and H2SO4 for 24 hours. All the above mentioned recycled aggregate processing techniques are however to be tested in full scale to study the efficiency of these treatment techniques. Compressive strength and water absorption capacities of various concrete samples made with recycled aggregate prepared using above discussed processing techniques are evaluated.