2026. február 23.
The increasing volume of construction and demolition (C&D) waste and the growing environmental impact of concrete production require innovative and sustainable engineering solutions. Recycled Aggregate Concrete (RAC) represents a viable pathway toward circular construction by replacing natural aggregates with recycled concrete aggregates (RCA). However, questions remain regarding its mechanical behaviour, durability, and structural applicability, particularly when multiple recycling cycles are considered.
This thesis aims to investigate the mechanical and performance characteristics of recycled aggregate concrete, with particular attention to multi-generation recycling. The study may involve the preparation of selected concrete mix designs incorporating recycled aggregates, potentially combined with fibre reinforcement (e.g., steel or synthetic fibres). Successive recycling cycles can be considered to evaluate how repeated crushing and reuse influence compressive strength, tensile behaviour, modulus of elasticity, deformation capacity, and durability-related parameters such as water absorption or permeability.
The work will combine experimental testing with critical evaluation of international literature, enabling comparison between natural aggregate concrete and recycled alternatives. Special focus may be placed on stress–strain behaviour, cracking mechanisms, and the evolution of material properties across generations.
The objective of the research is to deepen the understanding of RAC performance and to assess its feasibility for structural applications. The results are expected to contribute to sustainable construction practices and to support the broader transition toward resource-efficient and environmentally responsible building materials.