Thermal Performance of Crushed Waste Glass as Fine Aggregates in Shotcrete

Shotcrete plays a vital role in rock support systems, stabilizing loose rock wedges that could dislodge following excavations. While its flexible and efficient application is highly beneficial in rock fall prevention, the high demand for sand has raised significantly sustainable concern. The depletion of natural resources not only results in rising costs but also causes considerable environmental impacts. To address this, this research proposed an innovative solution by utilizing crushed waste glass (CWG) as a substitute for natural sands in shotcrete production. Particularly, the study focused on the thermal parameters of CWG to evaluate its potential in mitigating risks associated with extreme fire events. Through comprehensive investigations with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermal parameter measurement, this study demonstrated that CWG offers superior thermal stability and insulation compared to natural aggregates. These findings highlight the promising potential of CWG as a sustainable and effective alternative in shotcrete production.