Sustainable use of recycled carbon fiber reinforced polymer and crumb rubber in concrete: mechanical properties and ecological evaluation

Abstract

To mitigate the potential environmental pollution of discarded tires and waste carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), the present study investigates the feasibility of collaborative use of these recycled materials, which is called recycled CFRP fiber reinforced rubberized concrete (RFRRC). Specifically, eight different mixes are designed, considering different fiber dosages (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% by volume) and different rubber contents (0% and 10% by volume). Subsequently, the flowability, compressive and flexural strengths, and impact resistance of the RFRRC are discussed. Experimental results show that the compressive strength of the mixed composites is slightly improved, while the ductility, flexural toughness, impact resistance and energy absorption capacity are significantly enhanced. Ecological evaluation of the RFRRC is conducted through case studies of an individual building and regional buildings. Evaluation results indicates that CO2 emissions can be substantially reduced through the application of RFRRC in construction fields. The application of RFRRC not only can improve the mechanical properties of concrete, but also is of great benefit to ecological environment.