Prediction of density and compressive strength for rubberized concrete blocks

The influence of rubber content within the range of 5–50% as the replacement for sand volume and water/cement (w/c) ratio (0.45–0.55) on the density and compressive strength of concrete blocks was investigated. All the mixtures were proportioned with a fixed aggregate/cement ratio of 5.6. A total of 50% of the total aggregate was fine aggregate. Based on the experimental results, the density and strength reduction factors for rubberized concrete blocks were calculated by considering the dependent factors of rubber content and w/c ratio. Linear and logarithm equations derived, based on the results from experimental work are proposed to predict the density and compressive strength of rubberized concrete blocks.

► Effects of rubber content and w/c on the density and compressive strength of rubberized concrete blocks (RCB) are studied.
► Rubber content used in concrete should not exceed 10% vol. for structural and 40% vol. for non-structural applications.
► Linear equations are proposed to predict the density of RCB.
► A logarithmic equation was established to predict the compressive strength of RCB.
► Dependent factors of rubber content and w/c have been taken into account in both the proposed equations.