The effect of freeze-thaw cycles on the mechanical performance of RAC

The recycling of Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) to be used as aggregates for concrete is a potential alternative to min-imize the environmental impact. In cold regions, the damage caused to concrete structures by freezing and thawing is a serious problem. This study presents the results of experimental tests aimed at investigating the influence of the use of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) on concrete submitted to 150 freeze-thaw cycles. Aggregates made from laboratory-produced concrete waste were used in two size fractions (i.e., Coarse 0 - 4.8 to 9.5 mm and Coarse 1 - 9.5 to 19 mm). Concrete mixtures of normal strength and high strength were produced with only natural aggregate and mixtures with 100% RCA in each of the size fractions. The me-chanical behavior and physical properties were evaluated. The results showed that, for both natural and recycled concretes, the most affected class was the normal strength class.