Use of rubber particles from recycled tires as concrete aggregate for engineering applications

This study explores the ameliorative effects of rubber particles on some properties of concrete. The used rubber scraps are obtained from a mechanical trituration process of postused tires from motor vehicles and trucks. They have long been investigated for resource reutilization as an aggregate in concrete resulting in the ‗Rubcrete mix‘, which can be conveniently used in various applications with promising effects. Rubcrete provides a final product with good mechanical properties and also represents an effective and inexpensive way of recycling the discarded tires. The aim of this work is to present the results of an experimental investigation conducted to identify the optimal types and quantities of aggregates in concrete mixtures for engineering applications. Some of the examined characteristics include: density of rubber aggregates, workability, air entrapment and compressive strength. Three types of rubber particles (ash rubber, crumb rubber and tire chips) have been used in the rubberized concrete mixtures replacing partially or totally natural aggregates.