University of Portsmouth Finds 10% Recycled Glass Boosts Earth Block Strength 90%

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth and collaborating universities have discovered that incorporating 10% recycled glass powder and 10% lime into compressed earth blocks (CEBs) significantly improves their structural strength and durability while reducing reliance on cement, a carbon-intensive material. This blend achieved a compressive strength of 5.77 MPa, nearly double that of unstabilised blocks, and a 30% increase in tensile strength, without visible cracking under intense pressure. The study highlights the potential of recycled industrial waste as a sustainable building material that could lower environmental impact in construction. Testing included assessments of water absorption, compressive and tensile strength, as well as microstructural analysis, which showed micro-cracks only in mixes with higher glass content. This innovation aligns with the growing demand for greener construction materials and offers a promising alternative to traditional cement-stabilized blocks. Future research may explore the thermal and durability properties of these eco-friendly materials to further optimize their use.