Sustainable Ultra-high-performance Concrete: Strength, Durability, and Carbon Footprint with Recycled Glass and Limestone

Abstract

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) offers superior strength and durability but faces challenges related to high cement content, cost, and environmental impact. This study develops two optimised UHPC formulations incorporating recycled glass powder and limestone powder as partial replacements for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and silica fume (SF) to enhance sustainability and cost efficiency. Mechanical and durability evaluations, including compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity tests, were conducted, alongside a cradle-to-gate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) using SimaPro software. Results show that Optimised 1 achieved a 31% cement reduction, while Optimised 2 achieved 29%, with both exceeding 140 MPa at 28 days and 150 MPa at 90 days. LCA findings indicate that Optimised 1 exhibited the lowest environmental impact, significantly reducing carbon emissions and non-renewable energy consumption. These results highlight the potential of integrating recycled mineral-based waste into UHPC production, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative for high-performance construction.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Comments

King Saud University, Grant None

Keywords and Phrases

ground recycled glass; life cycle assessment; limestone powder; UHPC

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

2116-7214; 1964-8189

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Taylor and Francis Group; Taylor and Francis, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2026

Link to Full Text

Share

 
COinS