3-d numerical modeling and analysis of mechanical properties of rubberized concrete

Tire rubber is used with concrete for various non-structural applications and interior designs such as sound absorption. Numerous experimental investigations have been conducted on rubberized concrete, but numerical models are still in their initial stages. This report aims to test the mechanical properties and provide an evaluation of a numerical model of an elastomer (rubber) in concrete. Further, the mechanical properties from the experimental investigation were analyzed with a homogenous model and a heterogenous model. The static-structure module of ANSYS 17.2 was used to model and analyze rubberized concrete. Material properties like Young's Modulus (E), Poisson's ratio and the plasticity model were entered in ANSYS through an Engineering Data Module. Curve fitting was carried out to determine the incompressibility parameter and the shear modulus for the rubber. Coarse aggregates, which form up to 30% of concrete volume, were replaced by rubber at 20% intervals through full replacement. The mechanical properties were determined through standard compression and static-flexure test. The Compression strength, Modulus of Elasticity, Modulus of Rupture and displacement properties obtained from the simulation of the compression and static-flexure test indicated comparative errors below 20% in comparison with experimental results.