Rubcrete and Its Applications in Structures Subjected to Impact Loading

This book presents a comprehensive study on development and performance of fibre-reinforced rubcrete, an innovative concrete incorporating pre-treated crumb rubber from waste tyres as partial replacement of natural aggregates. This book highlights the development of rubcrete mixes of varying grades, their fresh, mechanical, and durability properties, and the role of steel and polypropylene fibres in improving toughness and impact resistance. With the growing demand for eco-friendly construction practices, this book addresses the challenges to balance sustainability and structural efficiency by integrating recycled rubber and reinforcing fibres such as steel and polypropylene. Emphasis is placed on cost-to-benefit analysis, energy absorption capacity, and sustainability aspects of this emerging material.

The content systematically incorporates the mechanical properties, fracture characteristics, impact resistance, and durability of rubcrete under different loading and environmental conditions. The content includes experimental and numerical investigations under static and impact loading to demonstrate the effect of crumb rubber and/ or fibre reinforcement on toughness, energy absorption, and strength for improving crack resistance, fracture energy, and long-term performance. This book also includes optimal mix design of rubcrete and explores its structural performance in real-world applications such as prestressed concrete railway sleepers, fencing posts, crash barriers, and kerbs.

By integrating material science, structural engineering, and sustainability, this volume provides unique insights into the use of rubcrete as a viable alternative to conventional concrete. It serves as a valuable reference for researchers, graduate students, and practicing engineers interested in sustainable construction materials, resilient infrastructure, and circular economy approaches in civil engineering.