Utilizing Waste Glass Aggregates in Concrete: Enhancing Performance and Reducing Carbon Emissions through Life Cycle Assessment

Abstract

To effectively address the issue of waste glass disposal, this paper proposed a novel approach of using waste glass aggregates as mineral admixtures in concrete. The study investigated the characteristics of waste glass aggregates and their effects on the compressive strength, flexural strength, and fluidity of concrete. Additionally, based on the life cycle assessment (LCA) method, the carbon emission reduction benefits of using waste glass aggregates were analyzed and calculated. The results indicate that with the increase in the content of glass fine aggregates, the fluidity of concrete increases, with larger particle sizes contributing to higher fluidity. Compared to ordinary concrete, the compressive and flexural strengths of waste glass aggregate concrete do not show a significant reduction. Moreover, the recycling and utilization of waste glass can reduce energy consumption and production costs, save resources, and reduce environmental pollution, which is significant for achieving the "dual carbon" goals in the construction industry.