Experimental study on durability of glass modified concrete: resistance to acid and sulphate attack

Amid the pressing global issue of waste generation and its escalating environmental impact, an innovative avenue for sustainability emerges through the integration of waste glass (WG) into concrete production. By replacing conventional materials, WG not only reduces cement consumption but also capitalizes on its silica-based composition to catalyse the formation of secondary calcium-silicate-hydrates (C-S-H) via interactions with cement particles. The study encompassed varying levels of WG (2% to 10%) in concrete mixes with a consistent water-to-binder ratio, assessing key properties including compressive strength, workability, and resistance to acid and sulphate exposure. Compressive strength for individual samples were examined after 7, 28, and 90 days of curing. Resistance to acid and sulphate exposure was examined by noting change in weight and strength after immersing samples in individual solutions after 7, 28, and 90 days. Remarkably, the most favourable outcomes were achieved with a 10% cement replacement by WG, resulting in a notable enhancement of compressive strength. Furthermore, the incorporation of WG yielded augmented workability, alongside reduced water absorption and density, attributed to the creation of C-S-H gel through pozzolanic reactions. Encouragingly, the concrete specimens showcased heightened resistance to sulphate exposure over a 90-day span, indicating its potential for enduring durability. These compelling findings underscore WG as an ecologically responsible and economically viable resource, offering a sustainable solution for advancing concrete production while addressing the imperative of responsible waste management, thereby steering construction practices toward heightened environmental conscientiousness.