Enhancing Sustainability in Pavement Concrete: Utilization of Waste Glass Powder in Two Distinct Sizes as a Cement Replacement Material

Year 2026, Volume: 15 Issue: 1 , 48 - 61 , 24.03.2026

Ayse Pekrıoglu Balkıs

https://doi.org/10.17798/bitlisfen.1738879

https://izlik.org/JA59RD32LU

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of waste glass powder (WGP) with two particle sizes (75 µm and 300 µm) used as partial cement replacement (5–20%) in pavement concrete. The use of glass powder in two different particle sizes and the application of glass in concrete pavements represent the original and distinctive aspects of this research. A systematic experimental program including slump, density, water absorption, and compressive strength tests was conducted. Results showed that increasing WGP content improved slump values, reduced density, and significantly decreased water absorption. While the control mix exhibited the highest 7 days strength, the mix with 15% WGP achieved the highest 28 days compressive strength (2.5% higher than control). The findings demonstrate that WGP is an effective and sustainable cement replacement, offering environmental benefits through reduced cement use while maintaining or enhancing concrete performance. These results suggest practical potential for using WGP-modified concrete in pavement construction and other large-scale infrastructure works where cost efficiency and sustainability are priorities.

Keywords

Cement replacement , Durability , Mechanical Properties , Sustainability , Waste Glass Powder

Ethical Statement

The study is complied with research and publication ethics.

Supporting Institution

cyprus international university

Thanks

Experimental analyses were performed using equipment and facilities in the Construction Laboratory, Civil Engineering Department of Cyprus International University.

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