Structural Performance and Mechanical Characteristics of Concrete Incorporating Waste Glass Powder as a Partial Cement Replacement

The use of waste glass powder in concrete mixtures as a partial cement substitute is examined in this experimental investigation. By weight of cement, waste glass powder was added at percentages of 0% (control), 10%, 15%, and 30%. At 7 and 28 days of curing, the mechanical characteristics, such as compressive strength and splitting tensile strength, were assessed. The findings demonstrate that adding waste glass powder to concrete can greatly improve its performance. When compared to the control mixture at 28 days, the ideal replacement level was 15%, which resulted in a 14.72% increase in compressive strength and a 22.73% rise in splitting tensile strength. While the 30% replacement maintained high compressive strength but showed some reduction in tensile strength development, the 10% replacement level demonstrated improved early-age tensile strength despite reduced compressive strength. The results show that waste glass powder has the potential to be used as a sustainable partial cement substitute, improving the mechanical characteristics of concrete while lessening the environmental effect of cement manufacture. In addition to supporting the circular economy, the study offers adaptable replacement choices based on particular strength needs, which has practical implications for the building industry.