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Mechanical Performance and Feasibility of Recycled Rubber Fiber-Reinforced Geomembranes for Lightened Slab Buildings

International Journal of Civil Engineering
© 2026 by SSRG - IJCE Journal
Volume 13 Issue 3
Year of Publication : 2026
Authors : Albert Jorddy Valenzuela Inga, Nelfa Estrella Ayuque Almidon, Dennis Jack Núñez Huamancayo, Aron Jhonatan Aliaga Contreras, Augusto Elías García Corzo, Job Perez Canchanya
10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I3P108
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Albert Jorddy Valenzuela Inga, Nelfa Estrella Ayuque Almidon, Dennis Jack Núñez Huamancayo, Aron Jhonatan Aliaga Contreras, Augusto Elías García Corzo, Job Perez Canchanya, "Mechanical Performance and Feasibility of Recycled Rubber Fiber-Reinforced Geomembranes for Lightened Slab Buildings," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 13,  no. 3, pp. 102-114, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I3P108

Abstract:

Construction demands solutions that improve durability and reduce environmental impact, and the use of recycled rubber is an alternative aligned with these objectives. However, there is little evidence on its application in geomembranes for lightweight slabs and its effect on structural and hydraulic performance. This study evaluated high-density polyethylene geomembranes reinforced with recycled rubber fibers, integrated in lightweight slabs, by means of permeability, tensile, adhesion, and durability tests according to ASTM standards, in addition to a cost analysis. The results showed reductions in water penetration from 39-42 mm to 25 mm and in the permeability coefficient from 10⁻¹¹ m/s to 10⁻¹²–10⁻¹³ m/s, with sustained improvements up to 91 days, in addition to an increase in the modulus of rupture by an average of 47%. The slight cost increase of 10% is offset by the increased durability, making it a sustainable technical solution for environments with high moisture exposure.

Keywords:

Durability, Geomembranes, Lightweight Slabs, Recycled Rubber, Waterproofing.

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