The Viability of Using Recycled Rubber for Load Bearing Structures
Date
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
The objective of this research project was to investigate the feasibility of using recycled rubber as a component of load bearing structures. There have been several studies into using recycled rubber as an aggregate in concrete, which shows promising results. Additionally, a team of students at Oakland University researched and tested if crumb rubber can be used to make a rail tie. Multiple design variations were configured with two different binder ratios (11% and 12%) and different insert shapes, which were tested to find what combination performs the best and can handle actual railway loads based on American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) standards. A variety of potential structural applications where recycled rubber can be used were investigated and a determination of best practices was recorded.