Environmental Impact of Concrete Slab Made of Recycled Aggregate Concrete Based on Limit States of Load-Bearing Capacity and Serviceability—LCA Case Study

Abstract

In the case of concrete sustainability, two main ways are generally discussed: (1) the reduction of natural raw materials and (2) the reduction of emissions related to concrete production. Following the second point, there have not yet been reported clear results. This problem is not given enough attention in present publications. This study brings a general view of this issue and a basic comparison with common concrete and traditional reinforcement. This case study deals with the life cycle analysis of a concrete slab made of recycled aggregate concrete with a fine recycled aggregate. The concrete slab was designed according to the limit states of load-bearing capacity and serviceability, which is based on the experimental verification of recycled aggregate concrete properties. Two different reinforcements are compared: (1) ordinary reinforcement by steel bars and (2) glass fibers. Furthermore, scenarios vary due to the slab thickness and reinforcement percentage. The results show the positive environmental impact of replacing natural sand with a fine recycled aggregate. The reduction of climate change potential can be almost 40% in some cases.

Effect of Salt Solution Erosion on Mechanical Properties and Micropore Structure of Recycled Fine Aggregate ECC

“…In recent years, the overconsumption of natural sand resources and the disposal of large quantities of construction and demolition (C&D) waste have become a major concern. To address this issue, recycling C&D waste and converting it into recycled fine aggregate has become an important method to reduce concrete costs, alleviate the scarcity of natural resources, and improve environmental sustainability [ 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Previous research has shown that incorporating up to 40% recycled fine aggregate into concrete can yield good mechanical and durability properties [ 12 , 13 , 14 ].…”

Mechanical and Environmental Assessment of Lathe Waste as an Addiction to Concrete Compared to the Use of Commercial Fibres

“…However, there is a clear lack of knowledge regarding the environmental impact of the use of fibres in concrete. There are only a few specific case studies where a structural element uses some type of fibre, such as slabs [16], beams [17], and reinforcement [18]. The research evaluated by Sbanieh et al proposes the use of fibre-reinforced polymer as an external reinforcement in beams.…”