Investigating the influence of fly ash and rice husk ash on the strength and durability properties of self compacting recycled aggregate concrete

Abstract

Abstract Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is a type of concrete that has become increasingly popular in recent years because of its exceptional fluidity and cohesive properties. The incorporation of supplemental cementitious materials (SCM) is essential to attain the desired consolidation qualities and meet the durability criteria in this material. Utilizing waste or industrial by-products as a source of SCM might enhance the qualities of self-compacting concrete (SCC) and minimize the environmental consequences linked to the manufacturing of Portland Cement (PC). Because of the high environmental costs and limited availability of natural materials, recycled aggregates are being more and more advocated as an alternative for use in concrete. In light of these facts, the paper addressed the effects of SCMs (fly ash and rice husk ash) and recycled aggregates on the fresh, mechanical (compressive strength, and flexural strength) and durability (sorptivity and water absorption) properties of SCC. The workability of SCC decreases with recycled aggregates and cement replacements, while it increases with flyash and decreases with RHA. The fresh properties of all mixes met EFNARC criteria. Substituting RA for NA resulted in a decline in strength, while RA100’s strength properties were enhanced by supplementary cementitious materials. The combination of FA and RHA improved RAC’s strength and durability. This suggests that self compacting recycled aggregate concrete incorporating SCMs can be a sustainable alternative.