In the heart of India, researchers are churning out innovations that could revolutionize the construction industry and bolster the circular economy. Namratha V Khanapur, a civil engineering specialist from Manipal University Jaipur, has been delving into the world of fine recycled concrete aggregate (FRCA), aiming to upscale its use in concrete production. Her work, recently published, could significantly impact the energy sector by promoting more sustainable building practices.
The construction industry is one of the largest producers of waste, with demolition and construction debris accounting for a significant portion. Fine recycled concrete aggregate, derived from crushed concrete waste, offers a promising solution to this problem. However, its porous nature has limited its use to just 30% in concrete mixes, due to concerns about the mechanical properties of the resulting concrete.
Khanapur’s research, however, challenges this limitation. “We’ve shown that with the right mixing methods and saturation levels, concrete made with 100% FRCA can exhibit better mechanical properties,” she explains. Her study, conducted at the Department of Civil Engineering, Manipal University Jaipur, tested three different saturation levels (50%, 75%, and 100%) and four mixing methods, including a new modified presoaking method.
The results were promising. Concrete made with partially saturated FRCA, using the modified mixing method, showed improved compressive strength, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity. At a 50% saturation level, the modified presoaking method outperformed the conventional method, demonstrating a 10% increase in compressive strength, 9% in flexural strength, 12% in static modulus, and a 20% increase in dynamic modulus.
But what does this mean for the energy sector? Well, for starters, it could lead to more sustainable construction practices. By increasing the use of FRCA, we can reduce the demand for virgin aggregates, lowering the energy-intensive processes involved in their extraction and processing. Moreover, the improved mechanical properties of the concrete could lead to more durable structures, reducing the need for energy-intensive repairs and replacements.
Khanapur’s work, published in Results in Engineering, also sheds light on the importance of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) in concrete. The modified mixing method resulted in an ITZ with lesser void content, indicating higher reliability. This could pave the way for future research into particle packing methods and their impact on concrete performance.
As we strive towards a more sustainable future, innovations like these are crucial. They not only help us make the most of our resources but also drive us towards a circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are kept in use for as long as possible. Khanapur’s research is a step in this direction, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable construction.