Effect on mechanical properties, durability and micro structure of high performance recycled aggregate concrete containing rice husk ash

Abstract

This study evaluates the mechanical and durability properties of recycled aggregate concrete using aggregates obtained from demolished structures. Experimental investigations were conducted in accordance with IS 383:2016 and IS 456:2000. Results indicate that recycled aggregate concrete demonstrates acceptable performance, supporting its use in selected structural and non-structural construction applications. In present study, the use of recycled aggregates from demolition waste and rice husk ash is used as a mineral admixture in producing high-performance concrete. The various tests are performed on the prepared concrete for mechanical properties. The tests were performed on the concrete prepared by replacing the normal aggregates by 0%, 30%, 60%, and 100% with recycled aggregates. The mineral admixture was kept at 10% after finalizing the optimum dosage, which was kept constant for all the mixes. The inclusion of 10% rice husk ash in high-performance concrete improves later-age compressive strength and durability due to pozzolanic action and slightly enhances tensile and flexural strength. Mix designs were prepared for grades of M-60, M-80, and M-100. The study revealed a 30% increase in all mechanical and durability properties of the prepared concrete when replacing normal concrete with recycled aggregates. From the tests, it can be suggested that 30% replacement of the natural aggregates by recycled aggregates obtained from the demolition waste can be used in making the high-performance concrete.