Numerical modelling of the mechanical behaviour of rubbercrete

Several finite element models have been analysed to numerically investigate the effects on the compressive strength and on the elastic modulus of a concrete with partial replacement of natural aggregates with different amounts and types of rubber particles from waste tyres. Percentages of substitution from 0% to 83% have been considered with rubber particles size ranging from 3 mm to 30 mm. Analytical relationships have been proposed to analyse the reduction factor of the compressive strength (SRF) and the reduction factor of the elastic modulus (ERF) of this material, known as rubbercrete. Results are confirmed similar to those from experimental campaigns reported in the literature. Results from the reference compressive strength variation are confirmed to depend on the size of the rubber particles, regardless the amount. A sensitivity analysis has been also carried out on the elastic modulus of the rubber and rubbercrete final properties are demonstrated not to clearly depend on it. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Finite element models were analyzed to investigate the effects of rubber particle replacement on concrete compressive strength and elastic modulus, with proposed analytical relationships and sensitivity analysis showing that rubbercrete properties do not solely depend on the elastic modulus of rubber.