Elastic Properties Study of Composite Mortar with Recycled Rubber Aggregates: with and Without Compatibilizing Agents

The elastic behavior of mortars, conforming to ASTM standards, incorporating up to 10% recycled rubber with and without interfacial compatibilizing additives, was investigated through quasi-static and dynamic testing methods.

Various thermosetting resins (epoxy, phenol–formaldehyde, and unsaturated polyester) were employed as interfacial compatibilizing additives to enhance rubber's performance as an aggregate. Mechanical tests (TM) including axial compression and flexion, longitudinal and torsional impulse excitation technique (IET), and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) were conducted to assess properties such as quasi-static (QEM) and dynamic elastic moduli (DEM), storage moduli (E′), and loss factors (Tan δ).

The study revealed significant enhancements in the composites, particularly in terms of elastic modulus performance, as a result of interfacial compatibilization. The materials developed in this study hold promise for applications in engineering and construction sectors, facilitating improved dissipation and damping of energy in the form of vibration in mortar composites while also addressing environmental concerns by integrating recycled materials.

Incorporating interfacial compatibilizing additives into mortars with recycled rubber offers notable improvements in elastic behavior, presenting opportunities for applications in various industries concerned with materials performance and sustainability.