The influence of the type and grain size of glass waste
on the physical and mechanical properties of cement mortars
Jakub Jura1 (orcid id: 0000-0003-2538-0014)
Roza Shainova2 (orcid id: 0000-0003-0815-1041)
1 Czestochowa University of Technology, Poland
2 National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia, Armenia
DOI: 10.17512/bozpe.2025.14.13
Article (PDF)
KEYWORDS
glass waste, cement mortar, recycling, sustainable construction
ABSTRACT
Due to the problem of dwindling natural resources and increasing waste volumes, the use of
various waste materials as a substitute in cement-based products is gaining particular importance.
This study compared the effect of two types of waste glass – transparent and blue –
in two fractions (<0.063 mm and 2 mm - 0.063 mm), used as a partial sand substitute, on the
physical and mechanical properties of cement mortars. Thirteen sample series were prepared,
including a control sample (CS) and samples with glass added at 10 %, 20 %, and 30 % by
weight of cement as a substitute for aggregate (standard sand). The tests were conducted in
accordance with applicable PN-EN standards, assessing workability (flow table method),
flexural and compressive strength after 7 and 28 days, water absorption, and frost resistance.
The study showed that glass additives reduced the workability of mortars, particularly in the
case of fine fractions, although some of the mixtures improved mechanical properties. After
28 days, the highest compressive strength was achieved for mortars with 10 % - 20 % blue
glass (over 62 MPa), exceeding the reference sample. Flexural strength was also highest for
samples with 10 % blue glass (<0.063 mm). The results suggest that appropriately selected
glass type and amount can positively influence the performance of cement mortars, supporting
the concept of sustainable construction.
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