Evaluation of physical and mechanical properties of cement-treated base incorporating crushed waste tires

Abstract

Pavements play a pivotal role in facilitating safe and efficient transportation. However, conventional pavement construction consumes substantial virgin resources, necessitating a shift towards sustainable alternatives. This study explores the integration of crushed waste tires as partial replacements for sand and gravel in cement-treated base (CTB) layers, aiming to enhance pavement sustainability. The CTB mixtures were meticulously formulated and tested for their physical and mechanical properties. Results revealed that while the presence of waste tire aggregates affected the fresh-state rheology, the cured-state performance remained satisfactory, often exceeding normative requirements. Notably, the addition of 10% rubber powder enhanced the mechanical performance of the CTB mixtures and overall exhibited acceptable shrinkage values. The findings offer insights into designing resilient and sustainable pavement systems by using crushed waste tires, aligning with modern infrastructure demands.