Performance of construction and demolition waste as recycled aggregates in concrete - Review

Abstract

This article presents a structured and comprehensive review of the existing literature on physical, chemical, microstructure, and durability properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). The engineering properties of concrete made from such recycled aggregates are critically analysed by focusing mainly on the fresh and hardened states along with several characterisation techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis. Also, creep, shrinkage, microstructure and durability of RAC were evaluated critically. In addition, improvement techniques in its microstructure are also explored with efficient mixing approaches for the development of geopolymer RAC. Furthermore, techniques to enhance the mechanical characteristics and long-term performance of recycled aggregate are distilled and divided into three categories: (1) lowering the porosity of recycled aggregate, (2) lowering the layer of old mortar on the surface of recycled aggregate, and (3) enhancing the property without changing the recycled aggregate. It is evident from the thorough examination that recycled aggregates can be used in concrete up to a certain amount. For the creation of sustainable and high-performance concrete, it is also necessary to incorporate mineral admixtures of micron, sub-micron, and nano size to address the drawbacks of recycled aggregates. © 2025 Emerald Publishing Limited: All rights reserved.