A Dynamic Assessment of Rubber–Sand Mixtures as Subgrade Materials during Vibratory Roller Compaction through DEM Simulation in 2D

The accumulation of discarded tire rubber poses significant challenges in terms of land usage and environmental hazards. To address this issue, this article explores the potential reuse of rubber in roadbed engineering. This study conducts a comprehensive examination of the vibration compaction process involving a vibratory roller and rubber–sand mixtures, utilizing the discrete element method (DEM) in a two-dimensional (2D) framework to investigate the impact of dynamic vibration compaction on sand mixtures with varying rubber contents under different roller working conditions, while also evaluating the associated energy consumption. The results reveal that both the rubber content and operational parameters of the roller significantly influence compaction vibration effects. Notably, optimal rolling frequency, velocity, and rolling mass show correlations with the rubber content. Furthermore, this research provides a microscopic understanding of the compaction process, offering detailed insights into displacement fields, velocity fields, and contact forces.