Paper Contents
Abstract
This study investigates the mechanical and durability-related behaviour of M25-grade expanded polystyrene (EPS) concrete incorporating recycled waste mortar powder as a partial binderaggregate modifier and subjected to a rapid-curing regime. EPS was used to produce a semi-lightweight M25 mix while finely milled waste mortar (WM) obtained from demolished mortar and screened to <75 m was introduced at 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% by mass of binder (cement + WM). Rapid curing (steam curing at 60 C for 8 h with controlled ramp) was compared with standard water curing (27 2 C). Mechanical tests (compressive strength, split tensile strength and four-point flexural strength) and water absorption (ASTM C642) were performed at 7, 14 and 28 days. Results show that (a) short-duration steam curing markedly accelerated early-age strength (7 and 14 days) for all mixes but produced a small penalty in 28-day strength for mixes with 10% WM, (b) 5% WM provided the best compromise between early gain and 28-day retention increasing 28-day compressive strength by 68% relative to control under rapid curing and (c) EPS reduced density and modulus but water absorption improved (decreased) with modest WM additions due to filler and micro-filler effects. Microstructural explanations are provided and practical implications for prefabricated EPS concrete members are discussed.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Mukesh Choudhary. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
