Effects of Recycled Aggregate on the Mechanical Properties and Durability of Concrete: A Comparative Study

Abstract

This study investigates how incorporating recycled aggregate into concrete affects its mechanical
properties and durability. Recycled aggregates, derived from construction and demolition waste,
offer an eco-friendly alternative to natural aggregates, aligning with sustainability goals in the
construction industry. Our research conducts a comparative analysis between conventional
concrete and concrete made with varying percentages of recycled aggregate. The mechanical
properties under investigation include compressive, tensile, and flexural strength. Durability
assessments focus on resistance to cracking, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical corrosion. The
experimental results indicate that including recycled aggregate can slightly decrease compressive
and tensile strength. However, these reductions are within acceptable ranges for many structural
applications. Flexural strength generally shows minor variations, indicating that recycled
aggregate concrete can meet the requirements for specific applications in construction.
Regarding durability, the study finds that while recycled aggregate concrete may exhibit increased
susceptibility to freeze-thaw cycles, proper treatment and mix design can mitigate these effects.
The resistance to cracking and chemical corrosion is also analyzed, showing that recycled
aggregate concrete can perform comparably to conventional concrete when appropriate
precautions are taken. Overall, this study demonstrates that recycled aggregate has the potential
to be a viable component in concrete production, offering environmental benefits without
significantly compromising performance. The findings suggest that recycled aggregate concrete
can be used in various applications with careful mix design and quality control, contributing to
more sustainable construction practices.