Long-term performance of agar-treated recycled glass sand under environmental stressors for sustainable ground improvement

Abstract

This study investigates the long-term durability of agar-treated recycled glass sand (ARGS) through unconfined compressive strength (UCS) testing, the pocket erodibility test (PET), and thermogravimetric analysis. The effects of various curing conditions, wet–dry cycles, and pH environments on the mechanical properties of ARGS were systematically evaluated. The results indicate that ARGS exhibits favorable mechanical performance under controlled conditions. UCS testing revealed that strength increased with curing time at room temperature. However, elevated temperatures and exposure to natural environmental factors, such as ultraviolet and precipitation, accelerated agar gum degradation, leading to a reduction in strength. Wet–dry cycling tests demonstrated a gradual decline in strength, yet ARGS retained approximately 50% of its initial strength after 15 cycles. Additionally, samples cured in artificial seawater maintained relatively stable strength, whereas those exposed to acidic conditions experienced a 50% strength reduction after 28 d, highlighting the susceptibility of ARGS to acidic degradation. PET results confirmed that ARGS exhibited significant resistance to erosion, even under natural environmental conditions. These findings suggest that while ARGS holds potential as a sustainable construction material, its long-term stability is influenced by environmental exposure, particularly in acidic and high-temperature conditions.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

recycled glass sand / agar / long-term durability / sustainable construction materials

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