Enhancing high-performance concrete sustainability: integration of waste tire rubber for innovation

Abstract This study extensively explored the impact of integrating waste tire rubber into high-performance concrete (HPC) by substituting natural sand. Different fractions of rubber particles—5%, 10%, and 15% replacements of the fine aggregate—were rigorously investigated. Properties from fresh to hardened concrete were assessed, including compressive and tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, workability, and damping coefficient. Replacing up to 10% of sand with 0.6 mm rubber particles showed minimal strength compromise compared to standard HPC. However, at a 15% replacement rate, a noticeable decline in strength became evident, highlighting an optimal threshold for inclusion. Additionally, rubber incorporation notably enhanced concrete ductility and damping, marking a substantial improvement in dynamic properties. Efforts to offset strength reduction through increased fines content and mineral admixture could not counteract the decline at the 15% replacement level, suggesting limitations in compensatory measures. Methodological refinements enhanced data accuracy, including capping and surface treatments during compression testing. The study underlined the viability of controlled rubber substitution for bolstering HPC's dynamic attributes. Despite strength reductions at higher replacement rates, controlled waste tire rubber integration proves promising for enhancing HPC's dynamics without compromising structural integrity, advocating its suitability across diverse construction applications.