The Metro Tunnel Project is working with researchers at the University of Melbourne and industry partners to trial the use of crushed glass in structural concrete at the new State Library Station.
Through this trial, we have demonstrated that 25% of virgin sand used in concrete mix can be replaced with recycled crushed glass, reducing reliance on virgin sand and diverting waste glass from landfill.
This is the first time a recycled glass concrete mix has been used in a structural application on a major infrastructure project anywhere in the world, having previously been limited to footpaths and local roads.
We trialled the 25% crushed glass concrete mix in the construction of temporary suspended concrete slabs, successfully producing a concrete mix of equal strength and quality.
We are now considering future trials at the University of Melbourne – with the potential to increase virgin sand replacement from 25% to 80% crushed glass.