The structural use of recycled concrete aggregates

The gap

Evidence profile

Sourced from the future work and future-work section and stated research gap of the source papers, classified as general, drawn from work published between 2024 and 2026, spanning 4 journals.

Supporting evidence — 7 representative gaps

• Recycled concrete aggregates derived from construction waste: potential applications in structural engineering (2026) · Journal of Science Technology and Engineering Mien Tay Construction University · doi

  3.2.1. Variability and quality control of recycled concrete aggregates A key limitation of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) is its high variability, stemming from differences in source concrete quality, processing, and contamination. Unlike natural aggregates, properties such as density, water absorption, and strength largely depend on adhered mortar content and parent material characteristics [2, 39].

  generalfuture workevidence 5/5
  Keywords: concrete variability quality recycled aggregates control limitation aggregate high stemming differences source processing contamination unlike
• EVALUATION OF GEOSYNTHETIC-REINFORCED C&D WASTE FOR FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT APPLICATIONS – A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH (2026) · Research Digest on Engineering Management and Social Innovations · doi

  Further research should focus on full replacement of natural aggregates and sand with construction and demolition waste. Long-term field performance monitoring and life-cycle cost analysis are needed. Studies on climatic adaptability and fatigue behavior under repeated traffic loads will strengthen confidence in adopting recycled materials for large-scale infrastructure projects.

  generalfuture-work sectionevidence 5/5
  Keywords: further research focus full replacement natural aggregates sand
• Impact of Incorporating Recycled Fine Concrete Aggregate and Recycled Concrete Powder in Mortar: Technical and Environmental Impact Assessment (2026) · Circular Economy and Sustainability · doi

  There is a lack of research on the technical and environmental feasibility of incorporating fine recycled concrete aggregate and recycled concrete powder in mortar. The existing body of research on recycled materials in construction is limited. There is a need for further studies on the optimal replacement levels of fine recycled concrete aggregate and recycled concrete powder for improved mortar performance.

  generalstated research gapevidence 5/5
  Keywords: there lack research technical environmental feasibility incorporating fine
• Recycled concrete aggregates derived from construction waste: potential applications in structural engineering (2026) · Journal of Science Technology and Engineering Mien Tay Construction University · doi

  The structural use of recycled concrete aggregates remains limited due to concerns regarding higher porosity, increased water absorption, and variability caused by adhered mortar. Long-term durability is a concern for recycled concrete aggregate concrete. There is a need for performance-based design methods that address stiffness reduction and durability.

  generalstated research gapevidence 5/5
  Keywords: structural use recycled concrete aggregates remains limited due
• Recycled concrete aggregates derived from construction waste: potential applications in structural engineering (2026) · Journal of Science Technology and Engineering Mien Tay Construction University · doi

  Advancing recycled concrete aggregate processing to reduce adhered mortar and improve aggregate quality. Conducting long-term full-scale field testing under realistic environmental and loading conditions. Developing performance-based design methods that address stiffness reduction and durability. Investigating seismic and dynamic behavior at the structural system level, including soil-structure interaction.

  generalfuture-work sectionevidence 5/5
  Keywords: advancing recycled concrete aggregate processing reduce adhered mortar
• Innovations in concrete structure design for sustainable construction practices (2024) · Journal of Civil Engineering and Urban Planning · doi

  The construction industry is facing a significant gap in terms of sustainable construction practices, with a need for innovative solutions to reduce environmental impacts and improve resource efficiency. The use of alternative cementitious materials, recycled aggregates, and advanced construction techniques is highlighted as a potential solution to address this gap.

  generalstated research gapevidence 5/5
  Keywords: construction industry facing significant gap terms sustainable practices
• Impact of Incorporating Recycled Fine Concrete Aggregate and Recycled Concrete Powder in Mortar: Technical and Environmental Impact Assessment (2026) · Circular Economy and Sustainability · doi

  Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term durability of mortar containing fine recycled concrete aggregate and recycled concrete powder. Research is needed to investigate the economic feasibility of using these recycled materials in construction. Studies are required to develop new sustainable construction materials and practices using recycled materials.

  generalfuture-work sectionevidence 4/5
  Keywords: further studies needed evaluate long-term durability mortar containing

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