Work

Effect of Crumb Rubber on the Performance of Fly Ash-Based Glass Fibrous Concrete Exposed to Elevated Temperature

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Tire waste, which is driven by industrial growth and global waste accumulation presents a significant environmental challenge. Recycling tire rubber in construction materials offers a practical and sustainable solution that reduces waste and supports Sustainable Development Goals by enhancing the resource efficiency. However, the incorporation of crumb rubber into concrete presents technical difficulties owing to poor bonding with cement, leading to weak adhesion and a porous interface. This weak bond diminishes concrete strength and increases the risk of premature structural failure. Exposure to high temperatures further compromises the mechanical properties of concrete, notably reducing its compressive strength, stiffness, load-bearing capacity, and structural integrity. This study examines the performance of fly ash-based glass fibre-reinforced concrete (GFRP) incorporating crumb rubber as a partial replacement for fine aggregates. In this study, the compressive strength and spalling behaviour of concrete mixtures with 0%, 10%, and 20% crumb rubber replacement were subjected to elevated temperatures of 200 °C, 500 °C, and 800 °C. The results demonstrated that the highest compressive strength of 27.76 MPa was achieved by concrete without crumb rubber. Introducing crumb rubber led to a notable reduction in the compressive strength; however, it improved the concrete resistance to spalling and enhanced its post-fire performance. In particular, concrete with a 10% crumb rubber replacement exhibited a 9.23% mass loss at 800 °C, which was only 4% higher than its mass loss at 500 °C. Despite the reduction in mechanical strength, the inclusion of crumb rubber significantly enhanced the ability of the concrete to withstand high temperatures. This study highlights the dual benefits of crumb rubber in sustainable construction, addressing waste reduction, while improving the thermal resistance and durability of concrete under extreme conditions.

Source: Journal of Advanced Research in Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Sciences

DOI: 10.37934/arfmts.130.1.148160

Authors: Muhammad Khairuddin Zulkifli, Nurul Natasha Yusof, Shahrizan Baharom, S. M. Priok Rashid, Hassan Amer Algaifi, Mohamed S. Majdub

Institutions: National University of Malaysia, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, University Elmergib

Language: English

Topic: Fire effects on concrete materials

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia