DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE RUBBERIZED CONCRETE FOR ENHANCE DURABILITY AND STRUCTURAL APPLICATION

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable construction materials has motivated researchers to explore alternatives to conventional concrete ingredients that are environmentally responsible, cost-effective, and structurally reliable. Rubberized concrete, developed by partially replacing fine or coarse aggregates with waste tire rubber particles, has emerged as a promising solution that addresses two critical global issues: the depletion of natural aggregate resources and the environmental hazards caused by the disposal of end-of-life tires. This innovative composite not only contributes to sustainable waste management but also enhances certain mechanical and durability properties, including resistance to impact, abrasion, freeze-thaw cycles, and chloride penetration. However, challenges such as reduced compressive strength compared to normal concrete can be mitigated through supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash, silica fume, and ground granulated blast furnace slag, along with surface treatments and optimized mix proportions. The development of sustainable rubberized concrete opens new pathways for its application in structural and non-structural elements, especially in areas requiring energy absorption, vibration damping, and enhanced durability. Thus, rubberized concrete is an important step toward achieving a circular economy in the construction industry, providing both environmental and structural benefit