Summary: | The reuse of crushed aggregates for producing structural concrete is a major
concern especially when it comes to its strength and durability. This study evaluated
recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) for its strength and durability under simulated
environmental degradation in the form of wetting-drying (W-D) cycles. The study
consisted of two phases, each involving the determination of the compressive strength and
modulus of elasticity using the conventional method and also a nondestructive ultrasonic
pulse velocity method (Pundit Lab). Phase 1 involved 7-day curing followed by 30 W-D
cycles, while Phase 2 included 28-day cured samples subjected to 15 W-D cycles. It was
found that RAC specimens subjected to W-D cycles had minimal degradation in strength,
making the use of RAC in construction very promising. Results from Pundit Lab compared
reasonably well with conventional test results, showing promise as a nondestructive tool
for the evaluation of RAC properties. === Includes bibliography. === Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2018. === FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection
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