Sustainable Acoustic Insulation in Nonstructural Concrete: Enhancing Performance with Ground Tire Rubber

This study investigates the use of ground tire rubber (GTR), derived from recycled scrap tires, as a partial replacement for fine aggregates in lightweight nonstructural concrete. Varying proportions of GTR (10% to 100% by volume) were tested to assess their impact on the concrete’s porosity, density, water intake, and noise insulation properties, while maintaining acceptable mechanical behavior. The research demonstrates that GTR incorporation reduces concrete density by 15% and increases porosity by 29.40%, significantly enhancing sound insulation, especially at high resonance frequencies. The total replacement of coarse sand with GTR fibers resulted in the greatest noise reduction of 35%. Additionally, the study reveals a linear decrease in flexural strength and Young’s modulus with increasing GTR content, although the concrete remains suitable for nonstructural applications. These findings advance the understanding of GTR’s role in improving acoustic performance and its potential as an ecofriendly solution for noise insulation in nonstructural construction. The study contributes to sustainable waste management by repurposing waste tire rubber, offering practical insights into optimal GTR proportions for specific nonstructural applications. This research underscores the potential of GTR-modified concrete in promoting environmentally conscious practices in the construction industry, offering valuable direction for future studies on recycled materials in concrete.