The impact of coarse aggregate gradation on sustainable concrete design: A detailed review of recent advances

This comprehensive review examines the critical role of coarse aggregate gradation in sustainable concrete design, focusing on advances from 2018 to 2022. The study synthesizes research on how proper gradation affects mechanical properties, durability, and sustainability metrics of concrete. Key findings highlight the impacts of gradation parameters on strength development, workability, permeability, and carbon footprint. The review demonstrates that optimized gradation can reduce cement content by 5-15% while maintaining performance, significantly lowering environmental impacts. Emerging technologies for aggregate characterization, innovative gradation models, and real-time monitoring systems are evaluated. This work provides a systematic framework for designers and researchers to leverage aggregate gradation as a key parameter in sustainable concrete design, offering both immediate practical applications and directions for future research.