STUDY OF THE USE OF GLASS WASTE IN THE PREPARATION OF CONCRETE

Abstract

The presented article describes the results of scientific research on the use of waste glass in concrete production. In line with the research objective, it was investigated whether glass waste can be utilized as fine and coarse aggregate in concrete, and its feasibility as a partial sand substitute was confirmed. Glass cullet was incorporated into the concrete mixture at replacement levels of 20%, 40%, and 60% of natural sand, and the resulting samples were evaluated in terms of their technological, physical, and mechanical properties through a series of laboratory tests. Based on conventional concrete production methods, specimens were prepared and cured under standard conditions. Fresh concrete was assessed through density and slump tests, while hardened samples were analyzed for compressive strength, impact resistance, and water absorption capacity. The results indicate that a 40% replacement of sand with glass cullet has a positive effect on both the mechanical and physical properties of concrete. However, at a 60% replacement level, a reduction in the adhesion between cement paste and aggregate in the interfacial transition zone was observed, leading to a decline in the mechanical performance of the material. Overall, the study demonstrates that the use of waste glass as a partial sand substitute is both environmentally and economically beneficial, offering a sustainable approach to concrete production.