Strength and microstructure of mortar containing glass powder and/or glass aggregate

The compressive strength of mortar containing glass powder (GP) and/or glass aggregate (GA) was tested, and its microstructure was also studied by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopic analysis (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The incorporation of GA would decrease the compressive strength of the mortar in the absence of GP. Incorporating both GA and GP could change the hydration environment, promote pozzolanic reaction of GP and improve the compressive strength. GP does not lead to but can effectively control ASR (Alkali Silica Reaction). GP and GA do not transform the type of hydrates, but have a great influence on the amounts of hydration products, and generate more calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H gel) with lower Ca/Si ratio. GP and GA with good gradation will make the microstructure denser.