Towards enhancing the sustainability of hybrid self-compacting concrete with glass powder, silica slurry, and polyolefin fibers

Abstract Sustainable construction requires advanced materials that minimize environmental damage. This research explores the interaction among fine glass powder (FGP), coarse glass powder (CGP), silica slurry (SS), and polyolefin fibers (PF) in self-compacting concrete (SCC). The optimum combination (15% FGP, 5% SS, 1% PF) improved flow by 17% without reducing strength or causing segregation. Mechanical performance improved significantly: 45.24% enhanced compressive strength, 25.79% increased tensile strength at 28 days, and 80.75% increased flexural strength at 28 days. Durability testing showed 35.7% reduced sorptivity. The microstructure examination (SEM, XRD, stereo microscopy) confirmed a denser structure with fewer voids, increased C-S–H gel formation, and improved pore structure. PF improved post-cracking performance through microcrack bridging, while FGP and SS assisted in making the matrix denser. CGP offered an economic alternative with only a 4.76% loss in strength. The study establishes two sustainable approaches: a high-performance FGP solution and a cost-effective CGP alternative, advancing sustainable construction through effective waste utilization.