Application of Recycled Steel Fibre in Malaysia: A Review

Abstract

The amount of waste tyres is expected to increase with the surge of vehicle ownership in Malaysia as tyres are vehicle vital components that require regular replacement. The improper disposal of waste tyres has generated environmental issues. Energy recovery through burning, recycling, and disposal in legal and illegal landfills are common methods in disposing of waste tyres in Malaysia. Studies show that waste tyres contain steel fibre that can be extracted and has the potential to be used in construction. In Malaysia, existing methods of material recovery are shredding and pyrolysis. The steel retrieved from waste tyres exhibits good adhesion with mechanical strength recorded up to 2165 MPa and a modulus of 300. However, the uneven shape, length, and geometry can lead to a balling effect when incorporated into concrete but with a proper mix proportion this issue can be managed. Addition of recycled steel fibre to concrete can enhance its structural strength and crack-bridging effect while the use of recycled steel fibre in hot mix asphalt can enhance its tensile strength and toughness. The utilisation of steel recovered from waste tyres presents an opportunity to address environmental concerns related to waste tyre disposal and its potential applications.