An experimental study reveals how freeze-thaw cycles affect the pore structure and dynamic mechanical properties of modified rubber concrete.
This study investigates the effects of freeze-thaw cycles on the pore structure and mechanical characteristics of modified rubber concrete, examining its performance under impact loads through various tests.
Conducted by researchers Chen, Yang, Wang, and others at Anhui University and Ma'anshan University, the research was published on 2025, with experiments conducted prior to publication.
The research was conducted at Anhui University, China, using facilities for freeze-thaw and impact testing. The goal was to understand the durability and mechanical performance of rubber concrete under cold conditions, addressing the challenges posed by the use of waste rubber materials.
The study employed several methods, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to analyze pore structure and Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) tests to evaluate dynamic mechanical properties under impact loads after various freeze-thaw cycles.
The results highlight significant impacts of freeze-thaw cycles on the mechanical properties of rubber concrete. Notably, the study found increased porosity and reduced peak stress after exposure to these cycles. It emphasizes how rubber particles, particularly those treated with NaOH solution, not only absorb energy but also mitigate the extent of crack propagation under impact, enhancing overall durability.
According to the findings, "The freeze-thaw cycles significantly impact the mechanical properties, increasing porosity and reducing peak stress across specimens." Researchers also noted, "Rubber particles absorb energy and reduce the extent of crack propagation under impact, enhancing durability." The study also draws attention to how incorporating modified rubber can afford significant advantages over conventional concrete, especially relevant for constructions subjected to cold weather conditions.
Concluding, the study provides valuable insights and confirms the feasibility of utilizing rubber waste as an effective material for concrete, paving the way for future developments aimed at enhancing the performance of construction materials used in challenging environments. Such advancements can help recycle waste materials more efficiently and create sustainable solutions for the modern construction industry.