Nanostructure of calcium-silicate-hydrates in fine recycled aggregate concrete

Our research objective is to foster a multiscale understanding of fine recycled aggregate concrete using bottom-up approach. We investigate the influence aggregates on structure calcium-silicate-hydrates. To this end, we introduce new thought model for with four levels structural hierarchy: beam, mortar, binder, and C–S–H gel levels. characterize behavior natural sand analytical methods such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, along depth-based mechanical testing micro-indentation nano-indentation. Micromechanical modeling integrated statistical deconvolution applied quantify phase distribution mortar mortar. observe that exhibits higher volume fraction calcium silicate hydrates. Furthermore, presence leads nanostructural changes at level. Fine loosely-packed low-density hydrates compared concrete. Calcium in exhibit porosity. Finally, porosity accounts 56.2% total These results suggest improve transport properties concrete, it essential reduce increase optimally-packed high-density