Recycled aggregates derived from excavation materials-mechanical performance and identification of weak minerals

The present study investigates the mechanical performance of recycled aggregates derived from excavation materials (REM). REM is blended with different quantities of recycled phyllite materials (RPM) and is investigated by Los Angeles (LA) and micro-Deval (MD) tests. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and acid solubility test are performed on the pulverized fractions < 1.6 mm obtained from the LA and MD tests to assess the respective degree of fragmentation and wear of mineral components. The results of the materials in unblended conditions showed considerable difference between MD performance while similar performance was found for LA. Furthermore, about 40% of RPM was sufficient to blend with REM without disturbing the required performance for blended mixtures. Mechanically weak minerals, i.e., phyllosilicates in RPM, significantly influenced the MD performance in blended and unblended varieties, and limestone minerals seem to disintegrate when mixed with amphibolite -which has the potential to dissolve in acidic environments.

Automated summary

This study investigates the mechanical performance of recycled aggregates derived from excavation materials. The blended mixtures of recycled phyllite materials and excavation materials were tested using Los Angeles and micro-Deval tests. The results showed that about 40% of recycled phyllite materials can be blended without affecting the required performance.