Effects of waste glass and rubber on the SCC: rheological, mechanical, and durability properties

Abstract

One of the practical ways for recycling solid wastes is by using them as a part of natural aggregates in concrete. The major purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of waste materials, such as glass and rubber particles as a partial substitution of coarse and fine aggregates on the rheological, mechanical and durability properties of self compacting concrete (SCC). On this note, seventeen mixtures have been designed by replacing glass and rubber in proportions of 5, 10, 15 and 20%. To assess the rheological and mechanical characteristics, fresh (J-ring, L-box, slump-flow, T50cm, and V-funnel) and hardened (compressive and flexural strengths and ultrasonic pulse velocity) tests were performed. Furthermore, in order to determine the durability against acid corrosion, the water absorption and sulphuric acid attack tests were performed. The test results showed that, the use of glass particles in the SCC can slightly enhance the workability; however, it has no remarkable impact on the mechanical properties. On the other hand, adding waste rubber to the SCC in addition to decrease of workability reduces compressive and flexural strengths and ultrasonic pulse velocity. Durability results showed that both glass and rubber can significantly improve SCC resistance against sulphuric acid attack.