Influence of particle size and content of recycled concrete powder on the hydration and compressive strength of Portland cement-based materials
摘要
This study investigated the potential of recycled concrete powder (RCP), a byproduct of concrete recycling processes, as a sustainable supplementary cementitious material (SCM). Unlike previous research that typically focused on either particle size or replacement level in isolation, this work systematically examined the combined influence of RCP fineness (D50 74.79, 13.94, and 9.57 µm) and replacement content (5%, 10%, and 15%) on hydration kinetics, rheological properties, and mechanical performance. Comprehensive material characterization included physical, chemical, and mineralogical analyses. Rheology was assessed using rotational rheometry, hydration behavior was evaluated via isothermal calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, and mechanical performance was determined through compressive strength and elastic modulus tests at 7, 28, and 56 days. The results demonstrate that finer RCP particles improve particle packing and accelerate early hydration due to nucleation effects. However, higher replacement levels lead to reduced cumulative hydration and strength development, attributed to clinker dilution. Importantly, replacement levels up to 10% using the finest RCP fraction yielded mechanical properties comparable to the reference, indicating its suitability for partial clinker substitution without compromising performance. Overall, this study highlights the technical viability of RCP as an SCM and reinforces its potential to support more sustainable cement-based construction practices. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge aimed at reducing clinker consumption and associated CO2 emissions, offering a promising pathway for the valorization of construction and demolition waste.