Development and performance evaluation of high-performance concrete enhanced with styrene-butadiene rubber

Abstract

This study investigates the development and performance assessment of high-performance concrete (HPC) incorporating styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) latex and silica fume as a partial replacement for cement. Eight concrete mixes were designed with varying SBR latex contents (0–7%) and a constant 10% replacement of cement with silica fume. The concrete mixes were evaluated based on their fresh properties, mechanical strengths, durability, and microstructural characteristics. The results indicate that the inclusion of SBR latex significantly enhances the flexural and tensile strengths, thermal resistance, and durability of the concrete, while the addition of silica fume improves compressive strength and impermeability. Mix 4, containing 3% SBR and 10% silica fume, demonstrated the best overall performance, achieving optimal mechanical properties, including improved flexural and tensile strengths, and enhanced durability under aggressive environmental conditions. Durability tests, including permeability, chemical attack resistance, and freeze–thaw cycles, showed substantial improvements in Mix 4 compared to the control mix. Microstructural analysis using SEM, TGA, and XRD revealed a denser interfacial transition zone (ITZ) and reduced porosity in the SBR-modified concrete, contributing to its superior performance. However, at higher SBR contents, a marginal reduction in compressive strength and workability was observed.