Comprehensive sustainability strategy for the emerging ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) industry

Abstract

The concrete industry is facing significant challenges in substantially reducing CO₂ emissions, recycling waste materials and limiting the use of resources. Using ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is one of the many possible solutions to reduce the environmental impact of the concrete industry. Numerous approaches have been applied to meet the challenges of making and utilising UHPC more environmentally friendly; however, an overall approach is lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by constructing a strategy for more sustainable use of UHPC. The strategy is developed by first evaluating measures known from the conventional concrete industry concerning transferability to the UHPC industry. Subsequently, the approach is enrichened with measures targeting the special composition and properties of UHPC. The strategy suggested in the conclusion consists of the following tools: efficient use of cement, efficient use of steel fibres, circularity: utilise by-products, local production, and efficient use of UHPC in structures.