Deformation Behavior of Recycled Concrete Aggregate during Cyclic and Dynamic Loading Laboratory Tests

Area of Science:

• Civil Engineering
• Materials Science
• Geotechnical Engineering

Background:

• Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) offers a sustainable alternative to natural aggregates in construction.
• RCA is increasingly used as a subbase material in road construction, necessitating an understanding of its long-term performance under traffic loading.
• Characterizing the deformation and fatigue behavior of RCA is crucial for its widespread adoption and reliable application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the fatigue and deformation characteristics of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) under cyclic loading.
• To determine the resilient modulus (Mr) of RCA as a function of fatigue life.
• To analyze the shakedown phenomenon and establish the fatigue behavior model for RCA.

Main Methods:

• Utilized triaxial cyclic loading tests to simulate traffic loading conditions.
• Employed resonant column tests for detailed characterization of RCA's dynamic properties.
• Applied the stress-life method and Wohler S-N diagram for fatigue analysis.

Main Results:

• Characterized the fatigue behavior of RCA under long-term cyclic loading.
• Quantified the resilient modulus (Mr) of RCA in relation to fatigue.
• Observed and described the shakedown phenomenon in RCA.
• Demonstrated that RCA fatigue behavior aligns with the Basquin law.

Conclusions:

• RCA exhibits predictable fatigue behavior consistent with established engineering principles (Basquin law).
• The study provides essential data on RCA's mechanical properties, supporting its use in road subbases.
• Further research into RCA's long-term performance can enhance sustainable construction practices.