Compressive properties of rubber-modified recycled aggregate concrete subjected to elevated temperatures

With the development of low-carbon sustainability, the recycling of waste concrete and waste tires to produce rubber-modified recycled aggregate concrete (RRAC) has become imperative. The compressive properties of RRAC after exposure to elevated temperatures were investigated in this study. The stress-strain curve, compressive strength, deformation performance, and bursting resistance of RRAC samples with rubber contents of 0%, 4%, and 9% were studied after exposure to 20, 200, 400, and 600 degrees C for 60 min. Furthermore, a single equation for the stress-strain curve of RRAC was selected and compared with the experimental results. The results suggested that the addition of rubber particles could significantly reduce the mass loss, improve the relative compressive strength, and increase the failure strain of recycled concrete. When the rubber content was large, additional pores formed after rubber melting, which led to a higher porosity in the specimen. Meanwhile, the internal structure became excessively loose, which resulted in a decrease in strength. Based on the obtained results, a rubber content of 4% is recommended for use in RRAC. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study shows that the addition of rubber particles can significantly improve the performance of recycled concrete, but excessive rubber content can result in an excessively loose internal structure, thereby reducing its strength.