Investigation on the mechanical properties and durability of high performance concrete reinforced with waste tires fibers

Abstract

This paper aims to evaluate the mechanical behavior and durability of high-performance concrete reinforced with steel fibers recycled from waste car tires at 1% and 2% volume fractions and 2 cm and 3 cm lengths. Compressive and flexural strength tests were conducted on confined cubic and prismatic specimens at 28 days of age, with ultrasonic testing performed to confirm concrete properties non-destructively. Additionally, immersing specimens in 5% HCl and MgSO4 solutions to study their resistance in aggressive environments assessed the durability of the concrete. The findings indicated that the incorporation of steel tire fibers had a positive impact on the flexural and compressive strength of the material. Furthermore, a distinct correlation was evident between the ultrasonic pulse velocity and both the compressive and flexural strength. Additionally, the high-performance concrete exhibited resistance to chemical reactions in aggressive environments.