Shear capacity of reinforced concrete beams with fully recycled aggregate

In order to enhance the idea of sustainability in civil construction, a broad range of materials can be found in building debris suitable for recycling as an aggregate. However, recycled aggregate (RA) made from concrete has been the focus of the majority of studies. Eight distinct types of construction materials were taken out of residential building demolition and recycled as coarse aggregate in order to encourage the use of local waste as a 100% alternative coarse aggregate. In addition to concrete, it contained tile, concrete blocks, marble, construction stone, limestone, mechanical brick, and Kura brick. The quantity of adhering mortar on the surface of each individual particle is what unites all of these RAs. Three concrete beams without web reinforcement were tested for shear capacity for each type of RA. Compressive strength, a/d ratio, and RA type were among the study's factors. The shear strength of the tested beams varied significantly as a result of the change in RA type, according to the results. Moreover, the examined specimens' shear capability was reduced by more than 40% due to the coarse aggregate type alteration. Two databases were assembled, 477 beams with conventional concrete and 199 beams with light-weight concrete all tested for shear strength. The current experimental results (G-1, G-2, and G-3) have fit well within the two databases. The present study shear stress results for beams with lightweight RA fit well within the database and can be considered for structural applications based on its mechanical behavior. In comparison with the current experimental data, the applicability of seven existing shear models was evaluated. A greater agreement with the experimental data was obtained by adjusting the shear models to account for the changes in the relative quality of RA as assessed by the crushing value (CV) and abrasion resistance (LA) tests.