Strength optimization of recycled fine aggregate self‐curing concrete using Taguchi design.

In the present scenario, sustainable materials which creates less impact on the environment are the need of the hour. Recycled fine aggregate self‐curing concrete (RFA‐SCRC) can play a significant role in reducing the utilization of natural river sand and also plays a vital role in conserving the water used for curing. This research work deals with the experimental investigations on the compressive strength, flexural strength and split tensile strength of RFA‐SCRC for various replacement proportions of RFAs using ordinary portland cement (OPC) and portland pozzolana cement (PPC) as different variants. The replacement proportions of RFAs considered for this study are 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% to the weight of manufactured sand. Strength optimization was carried out by Taguchi optimization method using Minitab software tool. The parameters considered in this study are the replacement proportion of RFA, type of cement and type of curing. The optimization results indicate that, considering compressive and split tensile strength characteristics, RFA concrete produced using 40% RFA, OPC, and self‐curing process is found to be optimum whereas 30% RFA, OPC, and self‐curing process is found to be optimum with respect to flexural strength characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]