Experimental Investigation on Cement Bricks Using Glass Powder as a Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregate

In recent years, waste materials have been utilized in construction projects more frequently since they do not compromise the short- or long-term properties of concrete, which also provides a platform for their proper disposal. Glass waste powder is one of these things. Glass is indeed an inorganic fusion material which hasn’t crystallized after being frozen to a hard state. Every year, millions of tonnes of waste glass are generated around the world. Glass debris is typically disposed of in landfills, which is not sustainable because silica does not decompose. To contribute to a more sustainable environment, our research attempted to use glass in the form of glass powder in the production of cement bricks. Glass powder in percentages of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% as a partial replacement for fine aggregate by weight was used to produce the bricks. The mechanical properties of hardened cement bricks, such as compressive strength and water absorption tests were studied. It was found that compressive strength and water absorption increased with an increase in the percentage of glass powder. Compressive strength enhancement is a desired characteristic for bricks, but an increase in water absorption may be recommended if it is within the permissible limits.