Work

Evaluating the Performance of Sustainable Concrete Made with Different Lengths of Tyre Waste Steel Fibers, Silica Fume, and Rice Husk Ash

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The growing environmental effect of conventional concrete manufacturing has led to the search for alternative sustainable solutions. This paper examines the synergistic properties of tyre waste steel fibers (TWSF), silica fume (SF), and rice husk ash (RHA) in natural and recycled aggregate concrete. The study fills a literature gap on the performance of recycled aggregates when mixed with these materials. The hypothesis goes that the mechanical and durability properties of concrete are increased when TWSF is used in conjunction with SF and RHA. The findings indicate that the best combination (10% SF, 20% RHA, and 1% TWSF) results in dramatic changes, such as 18% rise in compressive strength and 30–35% less water absorption than control mixes. The analysis shows that this mixture does not only increase the strength and durability of concrete but also helps more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions as industrial and agricultural waste is used. These results provide a new idea on the application of recycled aggregates in high-performance concrete because they further develop the concept of incorporating waste materials into concrete to increase concrete properties.

Source: Journal of Natural Fibers

DOI: 10.1080/15440478.2026.2649250