Review of the Strengthening Methods and Mechanical Properties of Recycled Aggregate Concrete (RAC)

Abstract

Abstract Replacing natural aggregate (NA) by recycled aggregate (RA) has contributed to the trend of sustainable development in civil construction. In this background, improvements in the mechanical properties of RAC and the scientific design of the mixture ratio are calling more concerns in recent years. This paper is a review of the recent research, including the following aspects: the mixture design of RAC; the improved mechanical properties of recycled concrete with steel fibers; the performance of the main components. In addition, the primary composition materials, properties, and calculation methods of the mixture ratio of RAC are summarized. The mechanical properties, durability and microscopic analysis of RAC are also discussed. The accurate calculation of mixture proportion can significantly facilitate the work of preparing a test mix of RAC. Through the mixture-ratio optimization and physical and chemical strengthening of RA, the mechanical properties of RAC can be improved to promote the wider application of this eco-friendly material.