Sustainable Solutions: Exploring Supplementary Cementitious Materials in Construction

Abstract

Despite advancements in energy efficiency, the construction and operation of our built environment remains responsible for 34% of global energy demand and 37% of CO₂ emissions, exacerbating environmental challenges. Climate indicators are worsening; carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, putting the world on a trajectory for a 2% annual increase. Every country, city, organization, and company need to adopt net-zero plans to combat this crisis. The construction industry requires innovative and sustainable solutions, including the exploration of eco-friendly construction materials, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to partially replace cement in concrete production is a significant stride towards sustainable construction practices, effectively addressing waste generation and environmental concerns associated with traditional cement usage. SCMs help in recycling industrial by-products and agricultural wastes, significantly reducing landfill waste and promoting resource efficiency. Additionally, partial replacement of cement with SCMs can lower CO₂ emissions from cement production, contributing to the construction sector’s net-zero goals. Moreover, SCMs can improve the durability and lifespan of concrete structures, reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance, thus saving costs and resources over time. This study summarizes diverse SCMs for partial cement replacement, explores their compositions, and emphasizes their crucial role in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. It evaluates key characteristics such as compressive strength, durability, workability, and environmental impact to assess the performance, advantages, and challenges associated with these materials. This analysis guides practitioners in making informed decisions about their implementation in construction projects. Our review guides the construction industry towards more eco-friendly practices, contributing to the long-term sustainability and resilience of concrete structures. By mitigating the environmental footprint of cement production, we promote the creation of more sustainable and high-performance concrete structures.