In the quest to bolster the stability of rock-based engineering structures, a groundbreaking study led by Keliang Wang of Shandong Jiaotong University in Jinan, China, has unveiled a novel approach to enhance slip resistance at rock-concrete interfaces. Published in the journal *Engineering Reports* (translated from Chinese as *Engineering Reports*), the research delves into the transformative potential of rubber powder in improving the antisliding stability of these critical interfaces.
The study, titled “Rubber Powder Enhancing Slip Resistance at Rock–Concrete Interfaces and Its Mechanism,” explores how the incorporation of rubber powder into concrete can significantly enhance the shear friction coefficient, a key technical indicator for the stability of rock-based structures. Through in situ shear tests and multidimensional mechanistic experiments, Wang and his team discovered that adding rubber powder to concrete can substantially improve its performance.
“When the rubber powder dosage is 20 and 30 kg/m³, the shear friction coefficient increases to 1.46 and 1.63 times that of the reference group,” Wang explained. This translates to an impressive improvement of 53.4% to 58.0% in antisliding friction, a critical factor for the safety and longevity of rock-based constructions.
The research also revealed that rubber powder imparts strain-hardening characteristics to concrete, making it more resistant to fractures. The fracture initiation toughness of rubberized concrete was found to be 1.17 times that of ordinary concrete, while its instability toughness was 1.24 times higher. This means that rubberized concrete can absorb more energy before failing, a significant advantage in high-stress environments.
Moreover, the base reaction distribution of rubberized concrete helps reduce stress concentration at specimen edges, further enhancing its stability. “By redistributing internal stresses and mitigating stress concentration, rubber powder enhances the antisliding stability of rock-concrete interfaces,” Wang noted.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the energy sector, where rock-based structures are prevalent. From hydroelectric dams to nuclear power plants, the stability of these structures is paramount. The use of rubber powder in concrete could lead to safer, more durable constructions, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing overall safety.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for innovative solutions to enhance the stability and longevity of rock-based structures will only grow. This research by Wang and his team at Shandong Jiaotong University provides a promising avenue for future developments in this field.
In the words of Wang, “This study provides a new approach for improving the stability of rock-based engineering structures.” As the energy sector looks to the future, the incorporation of rubber powder into concrete could well become a standard practice, ensuring the safety and stability of critical infrastructure for years to come.