Acoustic Mortar for Urban Infrastructures Based on Recycled Rubber and Rice Hulls

Abstract

– This analysis examines the mechanical and sound characteristics of a modified mortar by including recycled rubber and rice husks as components, in order to improve sound insulation and promote sustainability in the field of urban construction. The study was carried out through an experimental method, in which various dosages of modified mortar were created and compared with a conventional mortar (MT1). Tests were carried out with the objective of evaluating compression resistance, density and noise reduction. The findings showed that the mortar with the most appropriate dosage (MR4) achieved a compressive strength of 19.32 MPa after 28 days, something similar to the performance of common mortar. Regarding sound insulation, the modified mortar managed to reduce the noise level by 7.88% (from 82,019 dB without coverage to 75,553 dB with modified mortar), evidencing its effectiveness in sound absorption. The use of statistical techniques, such as ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis, corroborated significant variations in sound performance between samples, highlighting the effectiveness of the recycled mortar. Finally, the inclusion of recycled rubber and rice husk not only enhances the sound characteristics of the mortar, but also provides a sustainable solution by reducing solid waste and CO2 emissions. This modified mortar is presented as an ecological, viable option for urban construction, in line with contemporary trends towards a circular economy and constructions that are more friendly to the natural environment