Performance of self-compacting concrete based on fine recycled concrete aggregate incorporating polyethylene terephtalate fibers

Abstract. This experimental research aims to investigate the effect of adding polyethylene terephthalate plastic fibers (PETF) on the behavior of recycled self-compacting concrete (RSCC) based on recycled fine concrete aggregates (RFCA). Twenty RSCC mixes were made for this study. RFCA was obtained from the laboratory demolition of a moderate concrete slab and substituted by natural fine aggregates (NFA) at various mass fractions (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%). Furthermore, four volumetric fractions (Vf) of plastic fibers (0.3%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.2%) were added and sorted from plastic bottle recycling. The properties of the fresh and hardened new composite (RSCC made with PETF and RFCA contents) are analyzed and compared. The results showed that the mechanical performances of RSCC in terms of flexural strength and elasticity modulus were improved, where the compressive strength decreased with an increase in the Vf content of PETF and RFCA. The incorporation of 100% RFCA combined with 1.2% of PETF can enhance both flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of concrete up to 9% and 24%. This type of concrete can be recommended for structural repair applications.