Performance Evaluation of Treated Recycled Coarse Aggregates in Concrete: Mechanical Durability, and Economic Perspectives

The construction industry’s dependence on natural aggregates has raised environmental concerns due to depletion of resources and excessive landfill use. This study investigates the performance of treated Recycled Coarse Aggregates (RCA) as a sustainable alternative in M15 concrete mix. To enhance the quality and performance of RCA, three distinct treatment methods were sequentially applied to the same sample: mechanical grinding to remove adhered mortar, thermal processing to modify surface texture, and chemical soaking to reduce impurities and improve bond strength. Concrete mixes were evaluated through a series of tests, including slump value for workability, compressive strength for mechanical performance, and durability assessments using the Rapid Chloride Permeability Test (RCPT) and water absorption analysis. The findings indicate that the treated RCA, at a 15% replacement level, preserved the mechanical characteristics of the concrete while contributing to environmental sustainability. The results demonstrate that, with appropriate treatment, RCA can serve as a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional aggregates in concrete production, supporting greener construction practices.