Formulation of inexpensive and green reactive powder concrete by using milled-waste-glass and micro calcium-carbonate – A multi-criteria optimization approach

Abstract

In view of its high strength and durability, reactive powder concrete (RPC) is a promising construction material. The replacement of cement and silica fume with sustainable alternatives to RPC may provide significant benefits, however, there are challenges to overcome. In this study, calcium carbonate and ground waste glass powder were introduced as mineral mixtures to develop an environmentally friendly and cost-effective RPC mixture. The best flowability, proper compressive strength, and reduced cement content were achieved using a multi-objective simultaneous optimization approach based on the Derringer & Suich methodology. As a result of the study, 603 kg/m3 of cement was determined as the most suitable dosage for RPC. Additionally, the optimized mix contained 368 kg/m3 of waste glass and 118 kg/m3 of calcium carbonate, which had a beneficial impact on both cost and environmental considerations. As a result of numerous experimental tests, including compressive strength, elasticity modulus, chloride ion penetration, and drying shrinkage, the developed RPC's properties were validated and were comparable to the control mixture while showing superior drying shrinkage behavior. A further benefit of adding these admixtures was the reduction of superplasticizer dosage. Despite the optimized RPC's lower mechanical and chloride ion penetration performance at early ages, the performance discrepancy diminished over time due to the pozzolanic properties of waste glass powder. A significant characteristic of the optimized RPC was its superior drying shrinkage behavior throughout the testing period resulting from its reduced water dosage. Ultimately, the study highlights the potential of the addition of calcium carbonate and waste glass powder to RPC for sustainable concrete production at a low cost.