THE EFFECTS OF THE PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF FINE AGGREGATE IN CONCRETE WITH CRUSHED GLASS

ABSTRACT

This project work titled "The effects of the partial replacement of fine aggregate in concrete with crushed glass" investigates the viability and impact of using crushed glass as a sustainable alternative to traditional fine aggregates in concrete mixtures. This project explores the use of crushed glass as a partial replacement for fine aggregates in concrete production to address environmental and financial challenges. The study aims to examine the impacts of crushed glass on compressive strength and durability, as well as the properties of concrete mixtures containing different percentages of crushed glass. The study entails methodically substituting fine aggregate with varying proportions of powdered glass, starting from 0% (as a control) and increasing in increments of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. By conducting a sequence of laboratory examinations such as Compression Strength Tests, Flexural Strength Tests, Water Absorption Analysis, and Slump Tests, the project assesses how concrete mixes perform at each substitution level. The findings reveal significant shifts in concrete characteristics with the rise in pulverized glass substitution percentage. Initially, Compressive Strength rises, reaching its peak at 15% replacement, but declines thereafter with higher replacement levels. Flexural strength demonstrates fluctuations, notably increasing at 5% replacement, yet displaying differing patterns at higher percentages. As crushed glass content increases, water absorption decreases, indicating enhanced durability. Concurrently, workability of the concrete consistently diminishes as the proportion of fine aggregate replaced by pulverized glass increases, suggesting reduced workability with higher glass content, this project aims to explore the feasibility and potential benefits of partially replacing fine aggregates in concrete with crushed glass, suggesting that this innovative approach can lead to improved compressive strength while addressing environmental and economic concerns.