Mechanical and physical characteristics of alkali- activated mortars incorporated with recycled polyvinyl chloride and rubber aggregates

One of the ways to achieving net-zero concept in construction industry is use alternatives Portland cement (OPC) and virgin aggregates for concrete manufacturing. Recycled rubber polyvinyl chloride (PVC) conjunction with low-carbon binders can be potentially utilised substitute natural sand reduce negative environmental impacts OPC. A replacement (up 70% by volume) alkali-activated materials (AAMs) recycled PVC particles derived from tyre waste insulation coating electric wires, respectively, was investigated this study. The performance developed AAMs evaluated using a comprehensive testing program including mechanical, physical microstructure assessments. AAM composites outperformed aggregate terms thermal resistivity, water absorption, volume permeability voids (VPV), high-frequency sound insulation. Results showed that mixture achieved lowest absorption rate conductivity reduction 73% 20%, compared control mixture. maximum 34% VPV observed when In mechanical properties stream aggregates, rubber. results 30% would produce 7-day compressive strengths 35 MPa 25 MPa, which used high-load bearing structures. Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) performed detect leaching where indicated no had occurred after more than 90 days casting. Regarding carbon emission, footprint decreased polymeric fractions place sand. study safely non-load structural elements promising performance. • incorporated materials. demonstrated better compatibility AAM. highest flexural strength are 36 9 respectively. Chloride not detected days.