A numerical solution of the flexural behavior of tire derived aggregate concrete

Recycling scrap tires to tire derived aggregates (TDA) in concrete is an opportunity to divert potentially hazardous waste materials from landfills. The state of the research indicates that application of TDA reduces the strength of the TDA concrete (TDAC), but enhances the ductility of TDAC when compared with conventional concrete. However, there have been few attempts to numerically model the behavior of TDA concrete. A simulation model of TDA concrete was developed and applied to better understand the flexural behavior of this material. The linear elastic region in this model was governed by the characteristics of the matrix, which contains cement-sand mortar. Then, a linear elastic fracture mechanics relationship was employed to predict the post-cracking behavior of the cementitious matrix. The results indicated that the presented simplified method was capable to model the post-cracking behavior of the cementitious matrix. The TDAC model incorporated the rubber aggregate as a granular fiber with primary role of bridging cracks. It was determined that the aspect ratio of the TDA as well as the interfacial friction between the TDA and the cement mortar play a significant role in the post-cracking behavior of the material. The load-deflection curves generated by the model successfully predicted sampled experimental results.