Volume 87 Issue 09
Research article, Type: Subscription Tier-I; Page: 01-17;
Received: 18 April 2026 / Revised: 22 June 2026 / Accepted: 14 August 2026 / Published: 04 September 2026
Title: Seismic Performance Evaluation of High-Rise Commercial Buildings Utilizing Low-Cost Base Isolators Manufactured From Recycled Scrap Tires
Author: Vikash Kumar, Veborah Horn, Teena Favier, Rallan bell, Dehby Tandi & Donald Darant
Abstract: Safeguarding high-rise building structures during severe earthquake events requires highly advanced and expensive seismic isolation technologies. This research evaluates an affordable alternative utilizing structural base isolators constructed from recycled scrap rubber tires. Comprehensive finite element computer models will simulate the structural response of a twenty-story building under historic earthquake loads. Shake-table testing of physical scale models will validate the lateral displacement and energy dissipation capabilities of the isolators. The study specifically focuses on minimizing structural drift and preventing catastrophic collapse during major seismic shifts. This research aims to make reliable earthquake-resilient engineering accessible for rapidly developing, high-risk geographic regions…………….. [For more click here]
Keywords: Seismic isolation, Earthquake engineering, Recycled rubber, Structural dynamics
Research article, Type: Subscription Tier-II; Page: 18-34;
Received: 18 May 2026 / Revised: 13 June 2026 / Accepted: 26 August 2026 / Published: 08 September 2026
Title: Sustainable Concrete: Enhancing Mechanical Properties and Reducing Carbon Footprint Using Recycled Plastic Aggregates and Fly Ash
Author: Jonathan Price, Pietre vander Hostare, Tona Veeri, Tori Black, Nova Crista & Aries Schippers
Abstract: The construction industry faces critical environmental challenges due to the high carbon emissions of cement production and the depletion of natural aggregates. This study investigates the dual benefits of replacing conventional ingredients with industrial and consumer waste. We evaluated the structural performance of concrete mixes by substituting 10% to 30% of natural coarse aggregates with processed polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste. Simultaneously, we replaced 20% of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) with Class F fly ash. Standard curing regimes were conducted for 7, 14, and 28 days to measure compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths. The experimental results indicate that while plastic aggregates slightly reduce structural density, the inclusion of fly ash mitigates long-term strength loss through pozzolanic reactions. The optimized mix design achieved a 28-day compressive strength exceeding 35 MPa, satisfying structural concrete standards. Microstructural analysis via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed acceptable interfacial transition zones between the plastic aggregates and the cement matrix. Ultimately, this approach offers a viable pathway to lower production costs by 15% and decrease the carbon footprint of structural elements, aligning civil engineering practices with circular economy goals….………….. [For more click here]
Keywords: Circular economy, Concrete technology, Fly ash, Green building materials, Mechanical properties, Plastic aggregate, Sustainable construction