In a groundbreaking study that could reshape the landscape of sustainable construction, researchers have unveiled the promising potential of crushed waste glass as a reinforcement material for sand. Led by Mohammed Megrousse from the Laboratory of Material Sciences & Environment at Hassiba Ben Bouali University in Chlef, Algeria, this research addresses a pressing environmental concern: the disposal of waste glass, which poses significant challenges.
The study, published in the Journal of Rehabilitation in Civil Engineering, reveals how integrating crushed waste glass into sandy soils can enhance their mechanical properties, a finding that is particularly relevant in an industry increasingly focused on sustainability. “Our research demonstrates that using crushed waste glass not only supports waste recycling but also improves the performance of sandy soils in construction,” Megrousse stated. This dual benefit positions the construction sector to adopt more eco-friendly practices while simultaneously enhancing material performance.
Conducting a series of direct shear experiments, Megrousse and his team tested three categories of river sand with varying particle sizes, mixing them with different percentages of crushed waste glass—ranging from 0% to 30%. The results were striking. As the content of crushed waste glass and the mean particle size increased, so did the angle of repose and internal friction angles of the sand mixtures. “The data clearly shows that the combination of crushed waste glass and sand can lead to significant improvements in stability and load-bearing capacity,” Megrousse added.
The implications of these findings are profound for the construction industry, which constantly seeks innovative materials that reduce costs and environmental footprints. Utilizing recycled materials like crushed glass could not only lower the demand for virgin resources but also contribute to waste reduction efforts. As urban areas continue to grapple with waste management, this research provides a viable pathway for repurposing glass waste into valuable construction materials.
Looking ahead, the study encourages further exploration into the long-term durability and environmental impacts of using crushed glass in various geotechnical applications. This could pave the way for broader acceptance and implementation of recycled materials in construction, ultimately leading to more sustainable building practices.
As the construction sector evolves, the insights from this research could drive a significant shift towards greener methodologies. The potential to enhance soil performance while addressing waste management issues is a compelling narrative that aligns with the industry’s growing commitment to sustainability. For those interested in the detailed findings and methodologies, the study can be found in the Journal of Rehabilitation in Civil Engineering, which translates to the Journal of Rehabilitation in Civil Engineering in English.
For more information on the research team, visit the Laboratory of Material Sciences & Environment.
