Performance Analysis of Green Concrete Using Industrial Waste: A Sustainable Approach to Civil Engineering

Abstract

The global construction industry has long been a double-edged sword—on one side, it supports societal advancement and economic growth, and on the other, it contributes substantially to environmental degradation. Traditional concrete production methods consume vast quantities of natural resources and are responsible for a large percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions. This unsustainable dependency has triggered the need for alternative solutions that not only fulfill the structural demands of modern infrastructure but also contribute to environmental preservation. Green concrete has emerged as a transformative innovation in this context, offering a sustainable construction material by utilizing industrial waste products such as fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), and silica fume. These materials, often considered environmental liabilities, can be repurposed to produce concrete that is not only environmentally friendly but also exhibits competitive or superior mechanical and durability performance. This paper presents a comprehensive performance analysis of green concrete prepared using varying proportions of industrial waste. Laboratory tests focusing on compressive strength, workability, permeability, and chemical resistance were carried out under controlled conditions. The results confirm that with optimal mix design, green concrete can surpass traditional concrete in strength and durability while dramatically reducing its environmental footprint. The findings pave the way for broader implementation of sustainable practices in civil engineering through the widespread adoption of green concrete.