The materials used for preparing the test specimens comprised
cement, water, coarse aggregate, fine aggregate and different sizes
of rubber particles.
2.1.1. Cement
Ordinary Portland cement with a characteristic strength of
42.5 MPa was used in accordance with BS EN 197-1. This cement
contains 30% of pulverised fly ash which was taken into account in
the mix design process. It was stored in airtight packages before
use.
2.1.2. Water
Tap water that is reasonably free from contamination in the
laboratory was used to hydrate the cement in the mixtures.