PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF CRUMB RUBBER CONCRETE AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF FINE AGGREGATE UNDER DYNAMIC LOADING

Abstract

This study looks at the mechanical and dynamic properties of Crumb Rubber-modified Concrete (CRC) with  replacement levels. Compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths, modulus of elasticity, workability, and density were all measured experimentally, while dynamic response was analyzed using impact testing and ABAQUS simulations with the Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP) model. The results demonstrated lower workability, with slump values of  and compacting factors of , qualifying (CRC) as low-workability concrete. Compressive strength fell from   (control) to   for , , and  CR, respectively. Tensile and flexural strengths decreased, whereas the modulus of elasticity decreased by at  CR, indicating reduced stiffness but increased ductility. ABAQUS simulations using the Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP) model aligned with experimental results. Control concrete failed in a brittle manner, but mixes containing  CR exhibited enhanced ductility, delayed crack localization, and increased energy absorption, confirming the potential of CRC in seismic and impact-resistant applications. Under dynamic loading, CRC mixtures showed delayed fracture propagation and increased energy absorption compared to brittle failure in control specimens. Overall,  CR provided a balance of strength and sustainability while  CR improved ductility for seismic/impact-prone structures.