Work

Experimental and Numerical Assessment of Sustainable Concrete Using Recycled Concrete Powder (RCP) as a Partial Replacement for Cement

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The demolition of structures generates waste that poses environmental, social, and economic challenges. This study explores the effects of incorporating recycled concrete powder (RCP) into concrete, using it as a cement substitute at levels of 0%, 20%, 25%, and 30%. We evaluated fresh properties like workability and hardened properties such as dry density, water absorption, compressive, flexural, and split tensile strength, along with non-destructive parameters and microstructural features. The study found that substituting 20% of cement with RCP does not significantly impact mechanical properties, while higher substitutions (25% and 30%) have a slightly greater effect. Notably, 20% RCP substitution resulted in a 15–18% reduction in compressive strength over 7 to 28 days. However, it also led to a 20% decrease in CO2 emissions. A numerical analysis using nonlinear finite element analysis for flexural beam simulations further validated these results. Overall, the study promotes sustainable concrete solutions, achieving a balance between strength, environmental impact, and eco-efficiency in construction.

Source: Materials

DOI: 10.3390/ma18133108

Authors: Hafiz Asfandyar Ahmed, Waqas Arshad Tanoli

Institutions: Hong Kong Metropolitan University, King Faisal University

Language: English

Topic: Recycled Aggregate Concrete Performance

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137