Seismic capacity of 2- and 3-storey RC buildings with eco-concrete made by using residues for replacing natural aggregates

Building construction materials have been widely developed by adding several residues, with an aim of finding new ways of recycling wastes and developing more sustainable construction materials. Although positive results have been highlighted, mainly in terms of improved building insulation, the use of such construction materials has not yet been extended to an industrial scale. In particular, countries located in relatively high seismic zones show an understandable concern due to the higher mechanical requirements that buildings face. For that reason, this paper assesses the mechanical behavior of a novel concrete that has been made by replacing both cement and natural coarse aggregates, in different percentages, with brewing spent diatomite (BSDT) and recycled aggregates (RA), respectively. Several samples were formed and tested by following the corresponding standards. Results were then used for simulating the seismic response of 2- and 3-storey reinforced concrete (RC) buildings subjected to medium intensity earthquake loads. Calculations have been carried out by using several codes, which have also been compared to one another. Finally, concrete formulations have been discussed and validated. Satisfactory responses have been found when concrete is made by replacing up to 15% of cement with BSDT and 50% of coarse aggregate with RA. •BSDT and recycled aggregates have been used for cement and natural coarse replacement.•Mechanical properties of eco-concrete has been tested for several replacement ratios.•Two different buildings types have been modelled by using the new eco-concrete.•The building seismic responses have been simulated for several eco-concrete formulations.