Investigating The Use of Recycled Glass in Concrete Production

Abstract

This research investigates the use of recycled glass as a partial replacement for natural aggregates in concrete production, focusing on its impact on the mechanical properties, durability, workability, and setting time of concrete mixtures. Various tests were conducted with recycled glass contents ranging from 0% to 40%, with results showing that the incorporation of recycled glass reduces both compressive and tensile strength, with compressive strength decreasing from 40 MPa (0% glass) to 30 MPa (40% glass) and tensile strength declining from 3.8 MPa to 2.7 MPa. Workability also decreased, as indicated by a reduction in slump from 75 mm to 58 mm, due to increased internal friction from the angular glass particles. Durability was assessed through alkali-silica reaction (ASR) expansion, which increased with glass content, highlighting a need for ASR mitigation strategies such as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). Setting time was delayed, extending from 3.5 hours to 4.8 hours with higher glass content, which could be advantageous in specific construction applications. Despite the reduction in mechanical performance, the study demonstrates the potential environmental benefits of using recycled glass in concrete, including natural resource conservation and waste reduction. The findings suggest that recycled glass can be a viable alternative in non-structural applications, and with appropriate adjustments in mix design, it may contribute to more sustainable construction practices.