Recycled course aggregate (RCA) has emerged as a critical element in minimizing environmental impact by repurposing construction and demolition waste, thereby reducing the demand for virgin materials and promoting a circular economy. The growing global waste crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions. The first objective of this study is to compare the mechanical characteristics of recycled Coarse aggregate (RCA) and recycled fine aggregate (RFA) to those of the natural aggregate. After examining the mechanical qualities of RCA and RFA, such as sieve analysis, aggregate impact, aggregate crushing, and Los Angeles abrasion (LAA) value, it was observed that the results of RCA were within allowable bounds for a variety of concrete applications but the result of RFA did not comply with relevant IS code 383:1970. The study's second objective was to determine how different recycled aggregate amounts in different nominal mix concrete grade (M15, M20, and M25) affected the concrete's compressive strength. Findings showed that while certain combinations fulfilled IS requirements, others did not. The characteristics compressive strength of Concrete mixed with recycled coarse aggregate and recycled fine aggregate did not complied with relevant IS code 456:2000. Nevertheless, characteristics compressive strength of Concrete mixed with recycled coarse aggregate and natural fine aggregate complies the requirement of proposed grade. In addition, analytical Tools like MS-Excel & ANOVA tool and Tukey Test Analysis were used for processing, analysis and presentation of collected data and interpretation were made using appropriate tables & chart formats. The results shows that there was no significant difference between the samples used in Trial A and Trial B but there was significant variation between samples between Trial A and Trial C. Furthermore, the study’s third objective was to explore the production cost difference between producing recycled concrete aggregate and natural crushed aggregate. The analysis revealed that producing recycled aggregate is more cost-effective, making it an economical choice. In conclusion, this comprehensive study found that recycled coarse aggregates meet the necessary mechanical properties for concrete production. However, the success of different mix ratios in achieving desired compressive strength varies, with some combinations showing promise for broader applications. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of recycled aggregate vii production was demonstrated, making it a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to natural aggregates in the construction industry in Nepal. As natural crushed angular aggregates are mostly used for concrete production in Nepal. However, the results of the research showed that recycled aggregate are also a suitable alternative to the natural crushed aggregates for concrete production. Therefore, it can be recommended that use of recycled coarse aggregate can be promoted to be used in the construction industry for the production of concrete as it has benefits cost efficiency and enviro-friendly as well.

Keywords

Mechanical Property of Recycled Aggregate, Recycle Coarse Aggregate, Recycled Fine Aggregate, Compressive strength, Economic Aggregate, Environmental Friendly Aggregate.

Back to list