DOI

10.5703/1288284314210

Abstract

The waste tire problem in the United States is of great magnitude and has far reaching environmental and economic implications. This study investigates the feasibility of using tire chips, alone and mixed with soils, as lightweight material in highway embankments . The report contains: synthesis of all available information and results from laboratory testing of tire chips, rubber-Ottawa sand, and rubber-Crosby till. It is found that rubber-sand with chip/mix ratios of 33% or less exhibits excellent engineering properties: easy to compact; low dry density; low compressibility; high strength; and excellent drainage characteristics. On the whole, the rubber-Crosby till mixes do not indicate significant promise for use as lightweight geomaterial. The resilient modulus values of rubber-soils are significantly lower than conventional subgrade soils. Long term impact of leachates from tires on groundwater quality is not known. The use of tire chips and rubber-sand in highway embankments, above the water table, is very promising and should be promoted. The report presents strength and compressibility parameters for design and evaluation of embankments incorporating rubber-soils. In addition, it contains specifications, screening procedures, and testing standards for embankments incorporating rubber-soils.

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JHRP-93/04

Keywords

highway construction materials, waste utilization, scrap tire disposal options, embankments, lightweight materials, JHRP-93/4

SPR Number

93/4

Project Number

C-36-50L

File Number

6-19-12

Performing Organization

Joint Highway Research Project

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, IN

Date of this Version

5-1993

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