A review on methods to improve the quality of recycled concrete aggregates

The need for environmental sustainability has led to the use of recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) from structural demolition sites to produce recycled aggregate concrete (RACs) .With RACs, there is an interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between the aggregates and cement, and the ITZ may have weaker mechanical properties in RACs when compared with those in conventional concrete because of the use of RCAs. Thus, there is a need to evaluate the various methods that are suitable for improving the mechanical properties of the ITZ and RACs. This study reviews chemical-dependent treatment techniques that have been explored by various researchers. The methodology adopted in this study is an analysis of literature sources that address the quality improvement techniques and their effects on the properties of ITZ and RACs, including their compressive strength, water absorption, and their practical, economical, and environmental viability.

Automated summary

The study compares the mechanical properties of the interfacial transition zones in recycled aggregate concrete and conventional concrete, and evaluates methods for improving these properties. The methodology involves analyzing literature sources to discuss the effects of various quality improvement techniques on the ITZ and RACs properties, including their compressive strength, water absorption, and practical, economical, and environmental viability.