SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION AND THE ROLE OF RECYCLED AGGREGATE QUALITY

Abstract The rising demand for sustainable construction materials has increased interest in using recycled aggregates as a replacement for natural aggregates in concrete. However, the quality of recycled aggregates is often affected by attached mortar, porosity, and impurities. This quality has a significant impact on the performance of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). This paper reviews how the quality of recycled aggregates affects concrete's mechanical and durability properties. It specifically looks at compressive strength, workability, and water absorption. Comparisons indicate that low-quality recycled aggregates can reduce compressive strength by up to 25% and increase water absorption by more than 10%. Better processing methods like pre-soaking, surface treatment, and beneficiation can help bring performance closer to that of traditional concrete. There are gaps in the research. These include a lack of field studies, a lack of standardized quality measures for recycled aggregates, and a limited integration with design codes. Case studies from India and other countries illustrate the challenges and successes in real-world applications. The findings indicate that recycled aggregates can play a major role in sustainable construction; however, careful consideration of their quality is necessary to produce concrete that is reliable, durable, and environmentally friendly.