Improvement the structural behavior of recycled RC elements using CdO nanoparticles

Purpose This study aims to investigate the use of CdO nanoparticles with recycled aggregates (RAs) and its effect on the structural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) slab elements. Design/methodology/approach The study has been conducted through three phases: in the first phase, the structure of lab-synthesized CdO nanoparticles was investigated and then cement was partially replaced by CdO nanoparticles to estimate the optimum dose. The second phase focused on the properties of the RA collected from demolition wastes. In the third phase, RC slabs with different concrete mixes using RA and CdO nanoparticles were experimentally tested. Findings The results indicated good effect of using CdO nanoparticles with RA to improve the RC slab specimens’ behavior compared with the control specimen. Originality/value In present times, nanoparticles have a promising importance in the construction field. The influence of nanoparticles on the compressive strength of the concrete has been investigated by many researchers, but using it with RA is considered a new topic.