Utilization of waste rubber in non-structural applications

• Graded crumb rubber was used as fine aggregate replacement up to 100%.
• Composites of rubber–cement and rubber–epoxy were proposed.
• Surface treatment of rubber particles by polyvinyl acetate (PVA).
• Thermal and sound insulation properties were evaluated.
• Rubber composites have distinguished thermal and sound insulation properties.

The main focus in this investigation is to study the availability of using waste rubber particles in non-structural applications. In fact, from the previous investigations, the implementation of waste rubber particles in concrete has a negative effect on the mechanical properties. This study aims to benefit from the high insulation properties of rubber to enhance the thermal and acoustical insulation properties of concrete. Furthermore, the properties of rubber–cement and rubber–epoxy composites were evaluated in this investigation, especially in terms of thermal and acoustical insulation. The concept in these composites is to use cement or epoxy as a binder for the waste rubber particles without any other additives.The experimental program is divided into two parts. The first part focuses on the thermal and acoustical insulation properties of rubberized concrete at high rubber volume fractions. Also, the physical and mechanical properties of rubberized concrete were evaluated in terms of density, absorption, compressive strength, impact resistance, ductility and flexural strength. The second part is about the rubber–cement and rubber–epoxy composites. Three series of tests were conducted to determine the thermal and acoustical insulation properties in addition to stress–strain relations and the related properties for these composites.