Study on Mechanical Properties and Erosion Resistance of Self-Compacting Concrete with Different Replacement Rates of Recycled Coarse Aggregates under Dry and Wet Cycles

Abstract

Concrete that self-compacts is frequently utilized in engineering construction. Recycled coarse aggregate self-compacting concrete (RCASCC) is made by partially substituting recycled coarse aggregates (RCA) for natural coarse aggregates in order to conserve construction resources. This study examines the impact of linked sulfate erosion, dry and wet cycles, and RCA replacement rates of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% on the mechanical properties and durability of RCASCC. By using the mass loss rate, relative dynamic elastic modulus, corrosion resistance factor, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and atomic force microscope (AFM) analyses, as well as other macroscopic and microscopic methods, it is possible to examine the deterioration patterns of RCASCC under dry and wet cycles. The results demonstrate that the addition of RCA has a notable impact on concrete’s resistance to sulfate attack during both dry and wet cycles. The erosion products steadily rise, the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) becomes rougher, and the sulfate resistance falls as the replacement rate of RCA rises. According to the findings of SiO2, AFt, and CaCO3, the examination of corrosion products from XRD and microstructure from SEM and EDS is carried out. The old mortar that has adhered to the surface of RCA, as shown by the AFM analysis of ITZ and the SEM analysis of RCA, can significantly affect the roughness of ITZ inside RCASCC.