Abstract
The need to decarbonise construction has intensified interest in low-clinker, high-durability concretes for aggressive environments such as marine and water/wastewater infrastructure. This study presents a co-created research framework combining systematic literature review, stakeholder engagement, and performance-based experimental design to evaluate both conventional and emerging Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). SCM selection was guided by oxide composition (CaO/SiO₂, CaO/Al₂O₃), hydration kinetics, durability trends, and industry input. Meta-analyses of acid and sulphate resistance identified key compositional thresholds and performance anomalies, supporting the inclusion of biomass fuel ash (BFA) and limestone calcined clay cement alongside fly ash and GGBS. A standard industry mix (C32/40) was modified with SCMs for compatibility with Irish infrastructure practices. A two-phase lab programme was developed to assess compressive strength, chloride migration, sulphate resistance, and acid durability. While testing is ongoing, early results confirmed structurally viable 28-day strength across all systems. This integrated methodology ensures scientific rigour, field relevance, and regulatory alignment, advancing practical solutions for low-carbon concretes in harsh environments.
Keywords
supplementary cementitious materials, low-carbon concrete, durability performance, aggressive exposure conditions.
DOI
10.5703/1288284318109
Recommended Citation
Mohammadirad, Seyedalireza; O'Driscoll, Jenny Harmon; O'Shea, Michael; Clifford, Eoghan; and Ryan, Páraic, "Co-Creation of Sustainable Concrete for Harsh Environments" (2025). International Conference on Durability of Concrete Structures. 7.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/icdcs/2025/sce/7
Co-Creation of Sustainable Concrete for Harsh Environments
The need to decarbonise construction has intensified interest in low-clinker, high-durability concretes for aggressive environments such as marine and water/wastewater infrastructure. This study presents a co-created research framework combining systematic literature review, stakeholder engagement, and performance-based experimental design to evaluate both conventional and emerging Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). SCM selection was guided by oxide composition (CaO/SiO₂, CaO/Al₂O₃), hydration kinetics, durability trends, and industry input. Meta-analyses of acid and sulphate resistance identified key compositional thresholds and performance anomalies, supporting the inclusion of biomass fuel ash (BFA) and limestone calcined clay cement alongside fly ash and GGBS. A standard industry mix (C32/40) was modified with SCMs for compatibility with Irish infrastructure practices. A two-phase lab programme was developed to assess compressive strength, chloride migration, sulphate resistance, and acid durability. While testing is ongoing, early results confirmed structurally viable 28-day strength across all systems. This integrated methodology ensures scientific rigour, field relevance, and regulatory alignment, advancing practical solutions for low-carbon concretes in harsh environments.
