Application of low grade recycled aggregates for non-structural concrete production in the city of Barcelona

Abstract

In this research work the applicability of low grade recycled coarse aggregates (RA) on nonstructural concrete production was evaluated. Two types of RA were used, produced by recycling plants located in Barcelona. The properties of RA and limestone aggregates were determined. Conventional concrete as well as concretes made with 50% and 100% of RA were produced. Three types of cements, CEM II/A-L 42,5 N, CEM I 52,5 R and CEM I 42,5 N-SR were used in each type of concrete production. The physical, mechanical and durability (sorptivity and resistance to sulfate attack) properties of all the concretes were determined. According to the results, the concretes produced with 100% of RA obtained the lowest quality properties when cement with limestone additions was used. CEM I cement would be adequate using as maximum 50% of RA for concrete production. Finally, a pilot test was conducted to verify the large scale behavior.