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@article{201443,
        author = {G. Vijayakumar and Nakkala Yesu Babu},
        title = {Sustainable Rigid Pavement Concrete Using Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement, ZSF, and Steel Slag: A Multi-Parameter Evaluation},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {12},
        pages = {4866-4869},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=201443},
        abstract = {The depletion of natural aggregates and the resulting cost escalation have driven the need for sustainable alternatives in pavement construction. Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP)presents a viable solution for use in rigid concrete pavements. This study investigates the fresh,mechanical, durability, and microstructural properties of RAP-incorporated concrete. It emphasizes the importance of compaction parameters such as Maximum Dry Density (MDD)and Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) in optimizing mix design. Results indicate that while RAP inclusion generally reduces compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths, mixes with up to 40–50% RAP content maintain acceptable performance, making them suitable for pavement applications.The research further evaluates the role of Washed RAP (WRAP) and Dirty RAP (DRAP), along with Zirconia Silica Fumes (ZSF), in enhancing concrete performance. The addition of 10%ZSF improves compressive and tensile strengths and mitigates the adverse effects of RAP,particularly up to 40% replacement levels. Durability properties such as water absorption and sorptivity show significant improvement, especially with WRAP aggregates. Microstructural analysis reveals that mineral admixtures enhance the Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ), reduce porosity, and promote the formation of C–S–H gel, thereby strengthening the concrete matrix. However, proper treatment of RAP, especially removal of asphalt coating, is essential for improved bonding.Additionally, the incorporation of Steel Slag (SS) alongside RAP and ZSF enhances durability characteristics, including resistance to abrasion, chloride penetration, and sulfate attack. Tests such as Cantabro loss, carbonation, and ion penetration confirm the suitability of RAP-based mixes for harsh environmental conditions. Microstructural studies using FE-SEM and XRD highlight the interaction between RAP aggregates and cementitious materials, though a relatively weaker ITZ remains a concern. Overall, this study demonstrates that optimized combinations of RAP, ZSF, and SS can produce sustainable, durable, and cost-effective rigid pavements, while recommending further research on long-term performance and compaction behavior.},
        keywords = {Reclaimed asphalt pavement, Steel slag, Zirconia silica fumes, Sustainable concrete, Rigid pavement, Recycled aggregates, Durability analysis, Interfacial Transition Zone, Pozzolanic materials, Green construction.},
        month = {May},
        }