A review on methods to improve the quality of recycled concrete aggregates

The need for environmental sustainability has led to the use of recycled concrete
aggregates (RCAs) from structural demolition sites to produce recycled aggregate
concrete (RACs) .With RACs, there is an interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between
the aggregates and cement, and the ITZ may have weaker mechanical properties in
RACs when compared with those in conventional concrete because of the use of
RCAs. Thus, there is a need to evaluate the various methods that are suitable for
improving the mechanical properties of the ITZ and RACs. This study reviews
chemical-dependent treatment techniques that have been explored by various
researchers. The methodology adopted in this study is an analysis of literature
sources that address the quality improvement techniques and their effects on the
properties of ITZ and RACs, including their compressive strength, water absorption,
and their practical, economical, and environmental viability.