In a significant stride towards sustainable construction practices, researchers have explored the potential of repurposing waste materials in mortar production, focusing on crushed waste glass and pond ash. This innovative study, led by W.C.V. Fernando from the School of Engineering at the Centre for Future Materials, University of Southern Queensland, reveals promising findings that could reshape material usage in the construction sector.
The construction industry is under increasing pressure to find environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional materials. With many waste types, including glass, often ending up in landfills, the opportunity to recycle these materials is not just beneficial for the environment but also commercially advantageous. Fernando’s research highlights how crushed waste glass can replace natural sand in mortar, achieving up to 60% substitution without significantly compromising compressive strength. However, the study also warns that exceeding this threshold could lead to a notable decline in strength, particularly when using 100% glass.
One of the most critical aspects of this study is its focus on mitigating the alkali-silica reaction (ASR), a common issue that can lead to significant structural damage over time. The research indicates that while the use of glass in mortar can pose risks if not managed properly, incorporating pond ash as a supplementary cementitious material effectively suppresses ASR. Fernando notes, “Pond ash keeps expansions below 0.1% at a 10% Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) replacement, showing its potential as a viable alternative to fly ash.”
The findings suggest that pond ash not only performs comparably to fly ash in terms of ASR mitigation but also excels in strength development within the first 28 days of curing. This is particularly relevant as the availability of fly ash diminishes due to the decline in coal-fired power generation. The research indicates that using 20% pond ash strikes an optimal balance, allowing for increased glass content while keeping ASR risks at bay.
The implications of this research are profound for the construction sector. By adopting these sustainable practices, companies can reduce waste, lower material costs, and enhance the durability of their structures. Fernando’s work, published in the journal “Case Studies in Construction Materials,” underscores a pivotal move towards more sustainable building practices that can lead to significant commercial benefits.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, studies like Fernando’s pave the way for innovative solutions that not only address environmental concerns but also enhance material performance. The potential for integrating waste materials into standard practices could redefine how the industry approaches sustainability and resource management, making this research a critical reference point for future developments in construction technology. For more information about the research and the author’s work, visit lead_author_affiliation.