AN EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION ON SELF COMPACTING CONCRETE (SCC) BY RUBBER CREATE AND FLY ASH

Abstract

This study explores the use of rubber chips (RC) derived from Waste tires can be used in self-compacting concrete (SCC) to partially replace coarse particles, aiming to address environmental concerns related to rubber waste and reduce reliance on natural aggregates. Following IS 10262:2019 and EFNARC requirements, a total of 25 SCC mixes of M30 grade were prepared, containing fly ash (FA) at 0–20% as a partial cement replacement and RC at 0–20%.  The experimental program assessed durability features (water absorption, porosity, and chloride ion penetration), mechanical qualities (compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strength), and new attributes (flowability and passage ability).  The results showed that combinations like M30-FA10-RC10 performed best, maintaining adequate strength and workability up to 10% RC paired with 10–15% FA. FA contributed positively to matrix densification and durability, mitigating the adverse effects of rubber on porosity and permeability. However, higher RC levels led to a decline in mechanical performance and increased porosity due to the weak rubber–cement interface and hydrophobic nature of rubber particles. The findings confirm that the combined use of FA and limited RC content can produce sustainable SCC with satisfactory performance, promoting both material efficiency and waste valorization in construction application.