Investigation of dry-wet cycles effect on the durability of modified rubberised concrete

Abstract

For communities and property in flood-prone locations, the performance of construction materials during flood occurrences is important. Limited investigations are available on the influence of dry-wet water cycles on rubberised concrete after rubber crumbs treatment. Several tests are done to assess rubberised concrete's mechanical and durability characteristics and compare it to conventional concrete. An optimum amount (15%) of rubber crumbs are utilised for partially replacing fine aggregate in concrete. Physical appearance, surface cracks, compressive strength, mass difference and ultrasonic pulse velocity of RuC have been tested under water dry-wet cycles. After dry-wet cycles, RuC gains its compressive strength, mass and ultrasonic pulse velocity. No harmful effect is found under dry-wet cycles of water. After rubber crumbs treatment and using pozzolana-based cement, the rubberised concrete can struggle with dry-wet water cycles during flood conditions for a long duration.