Use of Tires in Civil Construction

Reusing tires in construction is not only an innovative way to reduce costs, but also a significant contribution to preserving the environment. By adopting these practices, we not only transform waste into useful resources, but also find creative solutions to construction challenges. Let’s explore some of these applications and how they help in recycling and environmental protection.

Rainwater gallery with recycled tires

In Araçoiaba da Serra, the use of recycled tires resulted in an impressive saving of R$54,000. The local government innovated by using used tires to build a stormwater drainage system. Replacing expensive concrete pipes, the technique involved the use of metal straps joined to pipes, with a final cost of R$18,000, compared to R$72,000 for conventional pipes. The 800-meter-long galleries were completed in August and proved to be an economically and environmentally responsible solution. The durability of the rubber pipes surpassed that of the cement pipes, offering an efficient alternative for reusing tires.

In addition to Araçoiaba da Serra, the recycled tire technique was also used in Porto Feliz, where it was used to contain the banks of the Pinheirinho stream. These examples show how tire recycling can be an effective solution in different contexts in the construction industry.

Rubber Asphalt and Tire Recycling

The application and use of recycled tires in the paving industry is another notable innovation. Rubber asphalt, which uses recycled tire rubber, offers a solution for road conservation. The Autonomous Department of Highways (DAER) of Rio Grande do Sul is conducting tests with this technology at kilometer 28 of RS/122, using a special traffic simulator to evaluate the effectiveness of rubber asphalt compared to conventional asphalt.

This type of asphalt not only reduces highway maintenance costs, but also extends the life of roads, representing a promising alternative for tire reuse. In Brazil, the first use of this technology occurred in August 2001 on Highway BR 116, on the Guaíba/Camaquã – RS stretch, and the practice has expanded since then.

Building Walls with Recycled Tires

In Chile, building walls with recycled tires has proven to be an innovative and cost-effective solution for those seeking a comfortable and affordable home. Using used tires filled with soil and a little cement, this technique not only reduces construction costs but also provides a pleasant and energy-efficient indoor environment.

Tire construction offers several advantages:

• Low Cost: Using recycled material, construction becomes much more economical. The main expense is the labor involved, making this technique ideal for communities with limited resources.
• High Thermal Mass: Tire walls have a high thermal mass, which helps keep the internal temperature stable, reducing the need for air conditioning and saving energy.
• Structurally Strong and Flexible: Walls made from tires filled with soil are robust and stable, allowing the construction of curved and straight structures with equal ease.

Tire walls are constructed by filling tires with dirt and compacting it until the tires deform and fit together. This technique creates a strong and durable structure. For a smoother finish, the spaces between the tires can be filled with aluminum cans and clay, followed by a layer of plaster for a clean finish.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Reusing used tires in construction not only offers economic advantages, but also contributes significantly to preserving the environment. By recycling tires, we prevent these materials from becoming problematic waste, helping to reduce pollution and the environmental impact of solid waste.

Recycling tires in construction also reduces the need for new materials, reducing the demand for natural resources and reducing the environmental impact associated with the extraction and processing of these materials. Thus, tire reuse aligns with sustainable construction practices and promotes a greener future.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

Although the use of tires in construction is promising, there are still challenges to be overcome. The widespread acceptance and adoption of these techniques requires more research and development, as well as public policies that encourage recycling and the use of recycled materials.

Continuous innovation and collaboration between the public and private sectors are essential to expand the use of recycled tires in construction. Implementing sustainable practices and seeking new solutions are key to maximizing the environmental and economic benefits of this approach.

The reuse of tires in the construction industry is a brilliant example of how innovation can transform waste into valuable resources. From the construction of storm drains to the creation of rubber asphalt and tire walls, these practices demonstrate that it is possible to combine economy, efficiency and sustainability. By adopting these solutions, we contribute to a cleaner environment and reduce pollution associated with discarded tires. It is proof that, with creativity and commitment, we can find effective ways to use resources and protect our planet.

Check out other interesting facts about recycling clicking here.
Learn how to make art by recycling, Click here.