Mix design procedure for recycled aggregate concrete

Conservation of natural resources and preservation of environment is the essence of any development. Use of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is one such attempt and is an answer to some of the problems in constructional engineering. The concept of using RAC is now gaining popularity and research in this direction has gained momentum. In this paper, the authors have identified the most suitable method of mix design for RAC, from amongst the available conventional methods of mix design. An influencing parameter is identified and an empirical relation is suggested to modify the influencing parameter. Mix design parameters thus obtained, enable RAC to attain the desired and designed target strength without attempting any trial mixes. The suggested modified procedure, however, demands 10% more cement which is considered quite reasonable and acceptable in view of the inferior quality of recycled aggregate.