Experimental evaluation of the Nano glass effect on the mortar's behavior: Durability, water penetration and bond strength

The negative effect of using cement in the concrete and mortar on the environment through the energy usage, waste clinker, high rate of carbon dioxide gas emission to the environment, make the investigation for finding new material to be used as replacement or partially replacement of cement very necessary for saving Environment and community. One of the new fields that consider as the daily topics for the researchers is the usage of nano materials, which make the used materials higher reactive compare to the powder size. Obtaining Nano material from solid wastes in the land that has pozzolanic ability will be twice advantage. This study examines nano glass powder as a partial cement replacement in mortar across eight mix ratios (0–50%), focusing on durability, bond strength, and water penetration. Results show that nano glass improves bond strength with masonry units, though optimal content varies by type. At 15% replacement, chloride resistance increased significantly, reducing charge passed by 40%. Electrical conductivity dropped at lower replacement levels, reaching a minimum at 15%, indicating better durability through reduced ionic movement. Water penetration depth decreased consistently, with an 85.7% reduction at 50% replacement. Based on findings, incorporating up to 10% nano glass in mortar offers the best combination of durability and bonding performance, especially for plastering or masonry joint applications. • Nano glass from pozzolanic waste was tested as a partial cement replacement in mortar at 0–50% ratios. • Bond strength improved in all mixes, with the optimal level depending on the masonry type. • Durability peaked at 15% replacement, while levels above 20% reduced performance due to pore structure changes. • Optimal durability and bond strength were achieved at up to 10% nano glass, ideal for plastering and masonry joints.