In the heart of Tehran, a groundbreaking study led by Mahdi Bameri from the Research and Development Department of CAPCO Co is turning heads in the construction industry. Bameri and his team have been exploring the potential of waste glass powder (GP) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), and their findings, published in *Engineering Reports* (or in Persian, *گزارشهای مهندسی*), could revolutionize how we think about sustainable construction.
The research delves into the effects of incorporating waste glass powder as a partial replacement for Portland cement (PC) in cementitious mortars. The results are promising, to say the least. “Increasing GP content prolongs the setting time due to its lower reactivity compared to PC,” Bameri explains. “However, the long-term benefits are substantial.”
One of the most significant findings is the impact on autoclave expansion. By replacing PC with 30%–40% GP, the team observed a reduction in expansion by up to 50%. This is a game-changer for the energy sector, where durability and longevity of materials are paramount. “The improved particle packing, pozzolanic activity, and optimized pore structure contribute to this reduction,” Bameri notes.
The environmental benefits are equally impressive. As the GP content increases, both embodied carbon dioxide (ECO2e) and embodied energy (EE) decrease. This reflects the lower environmental footprint of GP compared to traditional PC. For an industry grappling with sustainability challenges, this is a beacon of hope.
Microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed denser calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) crystals and refined pore structures in mortars with 30% and 40% GP. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis showed significant consumption of calcium hydroxide (CH) due to the pozzolanic reaction, suggesting reduced risks of alkali-silica reaction (ASR) and sulfate attack. This enhances long-term durability, a critical factor for any construction project.
The commercial implications are vast. The construction industry is constantly seeking materials that are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. Waste glass powder fits this bill perfectly. Its ability to reduce autoclave expansion, lower environmental impact, and enhance durability makes it an attractive option for future construction applications.
As the world moves towards more sustainable practices, research like Bameri’s is pivotal. It offers a glimpse into a future where waste materials are not just discarded but repurposed to create stronger, more durable, and environmentally friendly construction materials. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from these advancements, as the demand for sustainable and efficient building materials continues to grow.
In the words of Bameri, “This study establishes GP as a sustainable SCM with significant environmental and performance advantages for future construction applications.” The implications are clear: the construction industry is on the cusp of a sustainable revolution, and waste glass powder could be at the forefront of this change.