Thermo-Mechanical Performance of Rubberized Concrete: A Sustainable Alternative to Conventional Aggregates

Mohammed R. Jalal; Ali N. Sadeeq; Anas H. Muhammed; Sangar H. Haseeb

doi:10.51173/jt.v8i1.2742

Authors

Mohammed R. Jalal Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq
Ali N. Sadeeq Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq
Anas H. Muhammed Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq
Sangar H. Haseeb Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51173/jt.v8i1.2742

Keywords:

Rubber Crumb, Recycle Materials, Workability, Thermal Conductivity

Abstract

In response to increasing environmental challenges and the global demand for sustainable construction materials, this study explores the potential of rubberized concrete incorporating crumb rubber as a partial replacement for fine aggregate. The primary objective is to evaluate the influence of rubber content (0% to 50%) on the thermo-mechanical properties of concrete, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength (modulus of rupture), elastic modulus, and thermal properties such as conductivity, expansion, heat resistance, and heat capacity. A total of 128 concrete specimens were prepared using a fixed mix ratio (1:1.05:2.46) with a water-to-cement ratio of 0.47. Experimental tests were conducted to determine slump, density, mechanical strengths, and thermal characteristics. Results revealed that increasing crumb rubber content significantly reduced compressive strength (from 42.61 MPa to 15.69 MPa), split tensile strength (from 1.81 MPa to 1.09 MPa), and flexural strength (from 4.53 MPa to 2.70 MPa), while enhancing workability and thermal insulation. Thermal conductivity decreased from 0.947 W/m·K to 0.614 W/m·K, indicating better insulation capacity. Although elastic modulus and thermal expansion were not directly tested, reduced density and improved thermal behavior suggest favorable performance under high-temperature conditions. The novelty of this work lies in its systematic investigation of high-volume crumb rubber replacement and the integration of both mechanical and thermal analyses, addressing a gap in existing research. These findings demonstrate the suitability of rubberized concrete for non-structural or thermally demanding applications such as fire-resistant walls and insulating elements, while also promoting solid waste recycling and sustainable building practices.

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Author Biographies

Mohammed R. Jalal, Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq

Mohammed Robitan Jalal, born on August 20, 1995, in Kalar, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, is an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Civil Engineering at Garmian University, specializing in Structural Engineering. He earned his bachelor's degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering from Koya University and completed his master's degree in Structural Engineering at Kurdistan University in Iran. In addition to his academic role, he has contributed to research, including co-authoring a paper on the use of e-waste as a replacement for coarse aggregate in concrete, published in the Eurasian Journal of Science and Engineering in 2024.

Ali N. Sadeeq, Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq

Ali Neaaz is a researcher and academic affiliated with the Department of Civil Engineering at the College of Engineering, University of Garmian, located in Kalar, Iraq. He is involved in teaching and academic research in the field of civil engineering, contributing to the development of engineering knowledge and practice in the region. With a commitment to professional and academic growth, Ali Neaaz maintains active engagement in scholarly activities and is reachable via his professional email, [email protected]. He is in the process of registering his ORCID iD to connect his research contributions with the global academic community.

Anas H. Muhammed, Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq

Anas Hadi is an academic and researcher based in Iraq, affiliated with a higher education or research institution. He is actively involved in scholarly pursuits and contributes to the academic community through his work and collaborations. Anas is in the process of registering his ORCID iD to formally connect his professional contributions with the global research network. He can be reached at [email protected] for academic and professional correspondence.

Sangar H. Haseeb, Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq

Sangar Hassan is a researcher and academic affiliated with the Department of Civil Engineering at the College of Engineering, University of Garmian in Kalar, Iraq. He is actively engaged in the field of civil engineering through teaching, research, and academic collaboration. With a focus on contributing to engineering education and practice, Sangar is in the process of registering his ORCID iD to formally connect his scholarly output with the global academic community. He can be reached at [email protected] for professional inquiries.

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