Utilization of rubber aggregates in cement-treated bases: A review

Abstract

Cement-treated bases are commonly used in high-classified road pavements due to their stable strength and improved durability. However, this type of pavement base is sensitive to shrinkage caused by early water loss or temperature change after construction, resulting in shrinkage cracks and subsequent reflective cracking in semi-rigid pavements. To address this issue, various waste or by-products, such as oil, steel slag, end-of-life tires etc., have been investigated for use as an additive or a replacement for aggregates in cement-treated base. This review focuses specifically on the impact of rubber aggregates on the properties of rubberized cement-stabilized aggregates. In general, rubber aggregates are detrimental to the mechanical properties of cement-treated aggregates. However, the rubberized cement-stabilized aggregates exhibited reduced shrinkage and improved shrinkage cracking resistance, as confirmed through actual field applications. Furthermore, internal microstructure analyses indicate that rubberized cement-stabilized aggregates possess excellent anti-cracking capacity, particularly when subjected to compressive loadings. The review ends with recommendations and future studies to promote the applicability of rubberised cement-stabilized bases in semi-rigid pavements.