Hybrid techniques for quality improvement of recycled fine aggregate

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to improve and verify the qualities of recycled aggregates. For this purpose, a hybrid chemical/physical method to get high quality recycled aggregates was applied. After getting the high quality recycled aggregates, the qualities of Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) produced with recycled fine aggregates were verified through physical, mechanical, and durability testing. The results showed that the absorption rate, ratio of absolute volume, and impurities of New Recycled Concrete Fine Aggregate (NRCFA) were superior to those of Existing Recycled Concrete Fine Aggregate (ERCFA). In addition to the qualities of NRCFA, the results indicate enhanced physical, mechanical, and durability properties of SCC. Therefore, it is feasible to produce much higher qualities of recycled fine aggregates for concrete and to use them as structural materials via partial replacement for natural fine aggregates. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.