Investigative Experimental Research: Effects of Waste Rubber as an Additive Substitute for Coarse Aggregates on the Compressive Strength of the Concrete

¹ Civil Engineering Department, Technological Institute of the Philippines, Quezon City, Philippines
² Graduate School, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines

^* Corresponding author: julandalbertopadilla@gmail.com

Abstract

In recent years, rubber consumption has surged due to factors like global automobile industry growth, infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and the push for a circular economy. This research investigates the impact of incorporating waste rubber as a coarse aggregate substitute on concrete's compressive strength. This addresses concerns about rubber waste disposal and its potential as a sustainable construction alternative. Experiments vary rubber proportions (0%, 2%, and 5%) in concrete mixes to assess compressive strength. The results indicate that using rubber as coarse aggregate reduces concrete's compressive strength, Therefore having an amount of less than 2% is the best performance of the optimum rubber proportion. This is because rubber lacks chemical reactivity with cement during hydration, resulting in poor adhesion and bonding. This highlights the limitations of incorporating waste rubber in concrete mixes, cautioning against its use in high-stress structural areas. Engineers and architects interested in sustainability and innovation in construction should consider these findings, as they have practical implications for the industry.