Pub Date : 2025-05-01DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100315
Mengyuan Zhu , Chin Leo , Qinghua Zeng , Daniel J. Fanna , Jeff Hsi , Reza Karimi , Antonin Fabbri , Samanthika Liyanapathirana , Pan Hu , Hadeel Alzghool
In recent years, alkali-activation and geopolymerisation have emerged as sustainable alternatives for stabilising expansive soils, traditionally treated with lime or cement. While most studies focus on high-temperature-processed materials such as fly ash, slag, and metakaolin, this study investigates the potential of using un-calcinated kaolinite as a precursor to produce an alkali-activated binder (U-KAB) slurry for expansive soil stabilisation. The U-KAB slurry, prepared by mixing un-calcinated kaolinite with NaOH solution, was applied at dosages ranging from 1.6% to 9.6% to a synthetic expansive soil composed of kaolinite, montmorillonite, and quartz. Two phases of experimental testing and characterisation provided valuable insights into its stabilisation potential, highlighting a new pathway for the development of cleaner soil stabilisation binders by avoiding the high energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with thermal calcination. The paper also emphasises the critical importance of carefully monitoring NaOH dosage and allowing for an adequate curing period—incorporating both sealed curing and air-drying—to enhance stabilisation effectiveness. Furthermore, while the results underscore the stabilisation potential of the U-KAB slurry, they also highlight the potential presence of excess unreacted alkali when aiming to achieve well effective dissolution of aluminosilicates at higher dosages. Unreacted alkali can adversely affect the stabilisation process, particularly in causing unsought swelling or negative swelling (consolidation) in the treated soils depending on the curing conditions. This indicates there may be a need in some cases to further optimise U-KAB mix design to mitigate these issues. The goal is to achieve an optimised U-KAB slurry with effective dissolution of the precursor to enhance geopolymerisation while ensuring adequate workability for mixing to stabilise the expansive soil.
{"title":"Efficacy of expansive soil stabilisation using un-calcinated Kaolinite-Based Alkali-Activated binders","authors":"Mengyuan Zhu , Chin Leo , Qinghua Zeng , Daniel J. Fanna , Jeff Hsi , Reza Karimi , Antonin Fabbri , Samanthika Liyanapathirana , Pan Hu , Hadeel Alzghool","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100315","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100315","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In recent years, alkali-activation and geopolymerisation have emerged as sustainable alternatives for stabilising expansive soils, traditionally treated with lime or cement. While most studies focus on high-temperature-processed materials such as fly ash, slag, and metakaolin, this study investigates the potential of using un-calcinated kaolinite as a precursor to produce an alkali-activated binder (U-KAB) slurry for expansive soil stabilisation. The U-KAB slurry, prepared by mixing un-calcinated kaolinite with NaOH solution, was applied at dosages ranging from 1.6% to 9.6% to a synthetic expansive soil composed of kaolinite, montmorillonite, and quartz. Two phases of experimental testing and characterisation provided valuable insights into its stabilisation potential, highlighting a new pathway for the development of cleaner soil stabilisation binders by avoiding the high energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with thermal calcination. The paper also emphasises the critical importance of carefully monitoring NaOH dosage and allowing for an adequate curing period—incorporating both sealed curing and air-drying—to enhance stabilisation effectiveness. Furthermore, while the results underscore the stabilisation potential of the U-KAB slurry, they also highlight the potential presence of excess unreacted alkali when aiming to achieve well effective dissolution of aluminosilicates at higher dosages. Unreacted alkali can adversely affect the stabilisation process, particularly in causing unsought swelling or negative swelling (consolidation) in the treated soils depending on the curing conditions. This indicates there may be a need in some cases to further optimise U-KAB mix design to mitigate these issues. The goal is to achieve an optimised U-KAB slurry with effective dissolution of the precursor to enhance geopolymerisation while ensuring adequate workability for mixing to stabilise the expansive soil.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100315"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143906121","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-29DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100313
Dayana Gavilanes , Vladimir Valle , Francisco Quiroz , Francisco Cadena , José I. Iribarren
The current research presents the elaboration of lignocellulosic reinforced polymer composites based on urban pruning wastes (UPW), recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) and water-based acrylic resin. In doing so, UPW fibers were placed in acrylic resin bath. The “embedded” UPW fibers were called EUPW and used as reinforcement. Then, composites were formulated through a 3x2x2 experimental design: EUPW content (5, 10, and 15 wt%), natural fiber size (425 and 1000 µm) and coupling agent presence (none and polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride). After extrusion and compression molding manufacturing, composites were characterized in terms of FTIR, TGA, and tensile behavior. The FTIR results showed a band at 1700 cm−1 of the composites, representing the acrylate group of acrylic polymer (AP) in EUPW. Additionally, TGA determined that AP provided thermal protection to UPW. Furthermore, it was found that elastic modulus of the composites was increased compared to the neat polymer matrix; however, modulus of elasticity decreased with EUPW addition. According to the statistical analysis, coupling agent effect was the most significant factor on elastic modulus and tensile strength. Finally, the results revealed that combining UPW, acrylic polymer resin, rHDPE and polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride, composites with relatively positive balanced properties were obtained.
{"title":"Valorizing urban pruning wastes and recycled polyethylene towards sustainable natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites","authors":"Dayana Gavilanes , Vladimir Valle , Francisco Quiroz , Francisco Cadena , José I. Iribarren","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100313","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100313","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The current research presents the elaboration of lignocellulosic reinforced polymer composites based on urban pruning wastes (UPW), recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) and water-based acrylic resin. In doing so, UPW fibers were placed in acrylic resin bath. The “embedded” UPW fibers were called EUPW and used as reinforcement. Then, composites were formulated through a 3x2x2 experimental design: EUPW content (5, 10, and 15 wt%), natural fiber size (425 and 1000 µm) and coupling agent presence (none and polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride). After extrusion and compression molding manufacturing, composites were characterized in terms of FTIR, TGA, and tensile behavior. The FTIR results showed a band at 1700 cm<sup>−1</sup> of the composites, representing the acrylate group of acrylic polymer (AP) in EUPW. Additionally, TGA determined that AP provided thermal protection to UPW. Furthermore, it was found that elastic modulus of the composites was increased compared to the neat polymer matrix; however, modulus of elasticity decreased with EUPW addition. According to the statistical analysis, coupling agent effect was the most significant factor on elastic modulus and tensile strength. Finally, the results revealed that combining UPW, acrylic polymer resin, rHDPE and polyethylene-graft-maleic anhydride, composites with relatively positive balanced properties were obtained.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100313"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143904226","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-19DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100311
Avik Kumar Das , Jiacheng Xiao
Single-use waste glass bottles (WGB) pose significant environmental challenges in urban areas, and this study explores their upcycling into powdered glass (GP) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in engineered cementitious composites (ECCs). Through, systematic investigation of their mechanical performance, durability, early age properties and shrinkage for different levels of GP replacement a sustainable ECC mix (GP-ECC) was developed. GP-ECC demonstrates excellent mechanical and durability performance, including high ductility (∼4%), tensile strength (∼4 MPa), narrow crack widths (∼60 μm), and manageable shrinkage (∼1700 με). Optimal results were observed at 20–30 % GP replacement, where improved particle packing and pozzolanic activity enhanced performance. In contrast, at higher replacement levels (50 %) led to increased porosity and reduced durability due to suppressed hydration. The inclusion of natural seawater further accelerated early hydration and strength gain, though slight compromises were noted in crack control due to ionic interference, overall their performance are comparable to GP-ECC. Microstructural analyses (SEM, XRD) confirmed denser matrices and stronger fiber–matrix bonding at 30 % GP, particularly in seawater-mixed ECCs thereby, confirming the feasibility and high-perfromance of sea based materials (SBM)-GP-ECCs. A novel framework for life cycle analysis (LCA) for ECCs considering regional variations, including transportation emissions and energy mix, thereby reflecting intercity differences. GP-ECC and SBM-GP-ECC mixes achieved notable reductions in CO2 (∼8–10 %) emission and costs other ecological impacts, but such effects is a function of the location outperforming normal concrete and GP-concrete by up to 100x in tensile and durability properties. By systematically evaluating mechanical, rheological, durability, and microstructural properties, this study establishes a robust foundation for future research and practical deployment of GP-marine ECCs derived from waste materials, contributing to circular economy strategies and the development of cleaner, high-performance construction materials.
{"title":"Upcycling waste glass bottles as a binder within engineered cementitious composites (ECCs): Experimental investigation and environmental impact assessment","authors":"Avik Kumar Das , Jiacheng Xiao","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100311","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100311","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Single-use waste glass bottles (WGB) pose significant environmental challenges in urban areas, and this study explores their upcycling into powdered glass (GP) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in engineered cementitious composites (ECCs). Through, systematic investigation of their mechanical performance, durability, early age properties and shrinkage for different levels of GP replacement a sustainable ECC mix (GP-ECC) was developed. GP-ECC demonstrates excellent mechanical and durability performance, including high ductility (∼4%), tensile strength (∼4 MPa), narrow crack widths (∼60 μm), and manageable shrinkage (∼1700 με). Optimal results were observed at 20–30 % GP replacement, where improved particle packing and pozzolanic activity enhanced performance. In contrast, at higher replacement levels (50 %) led to increased porosity and reduced durability due to suppressed hydration. The inclusion of natural seawater further accelerated early hydration and strength gain, though slight compromises were noted in crack control due to ionic interference, overall their performance are comparable to GP-ECC. Microstructural analyses (SEM, XRD) confirmed denser matrices and stronger fiber–matrix bonding at 30 % GP, particularly in seawater-mixed ECCs thereby, confirming the feasibility and high-perfromance of sea based materials (SBM)-GP-ECCs. A novel framework for life cycle analysis (LCA) for ECCs considering regional variations, including transportation emissions and energy mix, thereby reflecting intercity differences. GP-ECC and SBM-GP-ECC mixes achieved notable reductions in CO2 (∼8–10 %) emission<!--> <!-->and costs<!--> <!-->other ecological impacts, but such effects is a function<!--> <!-->of the location outperforming normal concrete and GP-concrete by up to 100x in tensile and durability properties. By systematically evaluating mechanical, rheological, durability, and microstructural properties, this study establishes a robust foundation for future research and practical deployment of GP-marine ECCs derived from waste materials, contributing to circular economy strategies and the development of cleaner, high-performance construction materials.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100311"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143867823","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-17DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100309
Nazmus Sakib , Sabrina Islam , Shahriar Bin Kabir , Shamima Yasmin , Md. Mamun Kaysar , Joy Prakash Chowdhury , Md. Mahbubur Rahman
Elastic recovery of polymer modified bitumen (PMB) is considered an effective parameter to evaluate its capacity to resist permanent deformation through recovering some part of load-related deformation. Conceptually, it is represented as the ratio of recovered strain (measured under zero loading after a fixed duration) to maximum strain (under loading) on a bitumen sample, using various devices and loading types. Recovery tests also indicate the presence of polymer as well as degree of polymerization. Hence, such tests can be useful as rapid quality control and verification tool during field inventory inspections by procuring agencies. Traditional method, that is, ductilometer-based Elastic Recovery (ER-DB) relies on an unwieldy large device, delicate sample preparation process, and variable true strain rate. On the other hand, Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) test-based Percent Recovery (%R) utilizes creep-recovery from application of shear-stress on a small bitumen sample for obtaining similar information, but it requires a sophisticated and expensive device. Torsional Recovery (TR), which uses an easily portable, manually operable, quick and inexpensive setup, also relies on shear deformation and angular recovery. In the present study, TR was evaluated for its correlation with these established methods using a total of 15 PMBs, prepared with 5 types of SBS and one base bitumen. The results showed strong linear relationships, with linear regression values exceeding 0.85 in many cases, especially for PMBs made with the same polymer. Notably, TR and ER-DB exhibited more than 0.90, especially within SBS-type specific cases, while global correlation was found to be 0.76. In addition, it was found that TR can be reliably used for preliminary quantification of SBS-dosage with of 0.88. Interestingly, Torsional recovery values show good global correlation with Dynamic Modulus values and associated parameters with . In fact, SBS dosage, Torsional Recovery and Dynamic Modulus parameters also displayed excellent PMB specific correlation and reasonable global correlation. Other factors and correlations also indicate that TR results align well with existing test methods and hence, can be used for preliminary assessment of PMB quality and quantitative presence of polymer, with particular suitability for site deployment.
{"title":"Evaluating Torsional Recovery test for interlinkage with deformation-recovery measurement metrics of polymer modified bitumen","authors":"Nazmus Sakib , Sabrina Islam , Shahriar Bin Kabir , Shamima Yasmin , Md. Mamun Kaysar , Joy Prakash Chowdhury , Md. Mahbubur Rahman","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100309","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100309","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Elastic recovery of polymer modified bitumen (PMB) is considered an effective parameter to evaluate its capacity to resist permanent deformation through recovering some part of load-related deformation. Conceptually, it is represented as the ratio of recovered strain (measured under zero loading after a fixed duration) to maximum strain (under loading) on a bitumen sample, using various devices and loading types. Recovery tests also indicate the presence of polymer as well as degree of polymerization. Hence, such tests can be useful as rapid quality control and verification tool during field inventory inspections by procuring agencies. Traditional method, that is, ductilometer-based Elastic Recovery (ER-DB) relies on an unwieldy large device, delicate sample preparation process, and variable true strain rate. On the other hand, Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) test-based Percent Recovery (%R) utilizes creep-recovery from application of shear-stress on a small bitumen sample for obtaining similar information, but it requires a sophisticated and expensive device. Torsional Recovery (TR), which uses an easily portable, manually operable, quick and inexpensive setup, also relies on shear deformation and angular recovery. In the present study, TR was evaluated for its correlation with these established methods using a total of 15 PMBs, prepared with 5 types of SBS and one base bitumen. The results showed strong linear relationships, with linear regression <span><math><msup><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>2</mn></mrow></msup></math></span> values exceeding 0.85 in many cases, especially for PMBs made with the same polymer. Notably, TR and ER-DB exhibited <span><math><msup><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>2</mn></mrow></msup></math></span> more than 0.90, especially within SBS-type specific cases, while global correlation was found to be 0.76. In addition, it was found that TR can be reliably used for preliminary quantification of SBS-dosage with <span><math><msup><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>2</mn></mrow></msup></math></span> of 0.88. Interestingly, Torsional recovery values show good global correlation with Dynamic Modulus values and associated parameters with <span><math><msup><mrow><mi>R</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>2</mn></mrow></msup></math></span> <span><math><mrow><mo>≥</mo><mn>0</mn><mo>.</mo><mn>8</mn></mrow></math></span>. In fact, SBS dosage, Torsional Recovery and Dynamic Modulus parameters also displayed excellent PMB specific correlation and reasonable global correlation. Other factors and correlations also indicate that TR results align well with existing test methods and hence, can be used for preliminary assessment of PMB quality and quantitative presence of polymer, with particular suitability for site deployment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100309"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143844655","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-16DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100312
Guilliana Agudelo , Carlos A. Palacio , Sergio Neves Monteiro , Henry A. Colorado
This research investigates the use of two industrial byproducts added to hydraulic concrete and their impact on its durability when metakaolin is added. The byproducts used were a stone aggregate filler from the production of asphalt concrete, and foundry sand. The environmental impact of this development is significant as it involves three large industries that collaborated for the study: concrete, metal casting, and aggregate mining, quite economically influential elsewhere but particularly in developing countries. The stone aggregate was obtained after a drying and preheating process of the stone aggregates to produce asphalt, while the foundry sand is obtained after iron smelting. The effectiveness of the additions in mortar bars was tested by the expansion measurements conducted at 25 °C. This study also aims to determine how the additions affect the expansion and the alkali-silica reaction, which could increase the concretés durability. It was found that both byproducts can be classified as type N pozzolans and that achieve an expansion reduction of 32.9 % with the aggregate filler; of 36.84 % with the foundry sand; and of 71 % with the metakaolin. The microstructure of samples was evaluated via XRD and SEM over the samples immersed in NaOH during 18 days, revealing phases such as portlandite, oligoclase, quartz, cordierite, calcite, coesite, biotite, and albite. The SEM showed some of these phases as well as, in addition to the ASR-gel (alkali-silica reaction) as a rosette around aggregates. It was found the ASR gel in all the mortars evaluated. Last, one important outcome is that this investigation was conducted as a University-Industry collaboration, enabling a real green solution for the wastes.
{"title":"Hydraulic concrete durability studies with the addition of two industrial byproducts, stone aggregate filler, and foundry sand: A collaborative solution for three large industries","authors":"Guilliana Agudelo , Carlos A. Palacio , Sergio Neves Monteiro , Henry A. Colorado","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100312","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100312","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This research investigates the use of two industrial byproducts added to hydraulic concrete and their impact on its durability when metakaolin is added. The byproducts used were a stone aggregate filler from the production of asphalt concrete, and foundry sand. The environmental impact of this development is significant as it involves three large industries that collaborated for the study: concrete, metal casting, and aggregate mining, quite economically influential elsewhere but particularly in developing countries. The stone aggregate was obtained after a drying and preheating process of the stone aggregates to produce asphalt, while the foundry sand is obtained after iron smelting. The effectiveness of the additions in mortar bars was tested by the expansion measurements conducted at 25 °C. This study also aims to determine how the additions affect the expansion and the alkali-silica reaction, which could increase the concretés durability. It was found that both byproducts can be classified as type N pozzolans and that achieve an expansion reduction of 32.9 % with the aggregate filler; of 36.84 % with the foundry sand; and of 71 % with the metakaolin. The microstructure of samples was evaluated via XRD and SEM over the samples immersed in NaOH during 18 days, revealing phases such as portlandite, oligoclase, quartz, cordierite, calcite, coesite, biotite, and albite. The SEM showed some of these phases as well as, in addition to the ASR-gel (alkali-silica reaction) as a rosette around aggregates. It was found the ASR gel in all the mortars evaluated. Last, one important outcome is that this investigation was conducted as a University-Industry collaboration, enabling a real green solution for the wastes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100312"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143850749","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-04-13DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100310
Shyamkumar Mani , Pachaivannan Partheeban , C. Chella Gifta
Amid growing environmental concerns in India regarding the substantial CO2 emissions from Portland cement, accounting for 5 to 8 % of total emissions, the development of Geopolymer concrete (GPC) emerged as a long-term substitute. The study aims to review the research works on geopolymer concrete fortified with diverse elements like GGBFS, nanomaterials, and natural Fibres. The research employs a multidisciplinary methodology, encompassing a comprehensive assessment of previous experimental studies conducted by the investigators to examine the mechanical and structural characteristics, as well as the durability and microstructural aspects, of composite materials used in the production of geopolymer concrete. Materials under investigation include Fly ash, GGBFS, Nanoclay, bamboo, sisal, and hemp fibres. Findings from the literature review reveal that compared to a control mix, the notable improvements in compressive, tensile, and flexural strength by integrating GGBFS and Nanoclay are 15 %, 27 %, and 106 %, respectively. Adding hemp fibres at 5 % volume fraction, Fly ash, and GGBFS amplifies the water absorption capacity by 20 %. Sisal fibre was utilized as reinforcement in glass composites to develop a multilayered sisal-glass composite in polyester matrix optimal configuration (4 glass and 9 sisal layers) demonstrated excellent mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 57.60 MPa, flexural strength of 36 N/mm2, and 10 % moisture absorption, offering superior performance and cost-effectiveness. The findings highlight the effectiveness of strategic fibre layering in enhancing composite strength and cost efficiency. Natural fibres like hemp, bamboo, and sisal also improve the composites hardness and tensile characteristics. These consequences highlight the possibility of incorporating supplementary materials in geopolymer concrete, offering substantial improvements in mechanical and durability, environmental sustainability, and cost-effective construction solutions.
{"title":"A comprehensive review on multilayered natural-fibre composite reinforcement in geopolymer concrete","authors":"Shyamkumar Mani , Pachaivannan Partheeban , C. Chella Gifta","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100310","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100310","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Amid growing environmental concerns in India regarding the substantial CO<sub>2</sub> emissions from Portland cement, accounting for 5 to 8 % of total emissions, the development of Geopolymer concrete (GPC) emerged as a long-term substitute. The study aims to review the research works on geopolymer concrete fortified with diverse elements like GGBFS, nanomaterials, and natural Fibres. The research employs a multidisciplinary methodology, encompassing a comprehensive assessment of previous experimental studies conducted by the investigators to examine the mechanical and structural characteristics, as well as the durability and microstructural aspects, of composite materials used in the production of geopolymer concrete. Materials under investigation include Fly ash, GGBFS, Nanoclay, bamboo, sisal, and hemp fibres. Findings from the literature review reveal that compared to a control mix, the notable improvements in compressive, tensile, and flexural strength by integrating GGBFS and Nanoclay are 15 %, 27 %, and 106 %, respectively. Adding hemp fibres at 5 % volume fraction, Fly ash, and GGBFS amplifies the water absorption capacity by 20 %. Sisal fibre was utilized as reinforcement in glass composites to develop a multilayered sisal-glass composite in polyester matrix optimal configuration (4 glass and 9 sisal layers) demonstrated excellent mechanical properties, including a tensile strength of 57.60 MPa, flexural strength of 36 N/mm<sup>2</sup>, and 10 % moisture absorption, offering superior performance and cost-effectiveness. The findings highlight the effectiveness of strategic fibre layering in enhancing composite strength and cost efficiency. Natural fibres like hemp, bamboo, and sisal also improve the composites hardness and tensile characteristics. These consequences highlight the possibility of incorporating supplementary materials in geopolymer concrete, offering substantial improvements in mechanical and durability, environmental sustainability, and cost-effective construction solutions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100310"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-04-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143839188","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-31DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100308
Dian Huo , Hang Diao , Beian Li , Yuzhu Liang , Tianqing Ling , Wenjing Kuang
The pursuit of low carbon and clean sustainable development in road construction is imperative, and warm mix asphalt technology can help the transition from traditional high carbon emission paving materials to cleaner paving materials, thereby promoting the realization of sustainable development of road materials. The objective of this study is to examine the impact patterns of USP (a novel warm-mix additive) and Sasobit, both as individual entities and in combination, on the rheological and conventional characteristics of high viscosity asphalt. Additionally, the study seeks to delve into the mechanisms of action underlying these two distinct categories of warm-mix additives. The results of the research indicate that both warm-mix additives are effective in reducing temperatures when used alone or in combination. When used alone, USP shows significant advantages in low temperature performance, superior to both conventional hot mix asphalt and Sasobit warm-mix asphalt. The high temperature performance of USP modified asphalt is closely related to its dosage. On the other hand, the use of Sasobit alone can improve the high-temperature performance and creep recovery properties of high viscosity asphalt, but results in a decrease in low-temperature performance. When USP is blended with Sasobit, the resulting asphalt exhibits both good high and low temperature performance, with a significant improvement in aging resistance observed in the 5% USP and 2.5% Sasobit group. In conclusion, in order to ensure that warm-mix additives have a beneficial effect on the properties of high viscosity asphalt, the combined use of multiple warm-mix additives can be considered comprehensively to achieve a balance between low carbon emissions and excellent performance.
{"title":"Rheological properties and microscopic characterization of high viscosity asphalt with different warm mixing agents","authors":"Dian Huo , Hang Diao , Beian Li , Yuzhu Liang , Tianqing Ling , Wenjing Kuang","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100308","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100308","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The pursuit of low carbon and clean sustainable development in road construction is imperative, and warm mix asphalt technology can help the transition from traditional high carbon emission paving materials to cleaner paving materials, thereby promoting the realization of sustainable development of road materials. The objective of this study is to examine the impact patterns of USP (a novel warm-mix additive) and Sasobit, both as individual entities and in combination, on the rheological and conventional characteristics of high viscosity asphalt. Additionally, the study seeks to delve into the mechanisms of action underlying these two distinct categories of warm-mix additives. The results of the research indicate that both warm-mix additives are effective in reducing temperatures when used alone or in combination. When used alone, USP shows significant advantages in low temperature performance, superior to both conventional hot mix asphalt and Sasobit warm-mix asphalt. The high temperature performance of USP modified asphalt is closely related to its dosage. On the other hand, the use of Sasobit alone can improve the high-temperature performance and creep recovery properties of high viscosity asphalt, but results in a decrease in low-temperature performance. When USP is blended with Sasobit, the resulting asphalt exhibits both good high and low temperature performance, with a significant improvement in aging resistance observed in the 5% USP and 2.5% Sasobit group. In conclusion, in order to ensure that warm-mix additives have a beneficial effect on the properties of high viscosity asphalt, the combined use of multiple warm-mix additives can be considered comprehensively to achieve a balance between low carbon emissions and excellent performance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100308"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143791141","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study explores the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) mitigation potential of 11 unconventional precursors based alkali-activated concretes (UAACs) developed as sustainable alternatives to portland cement concrete. Using precursors such as calcined low-purity kaolinitic clays, volcanic ashes, coal bottom ash, and fluidized bed combustion ashes, these UAACs aim to reduce environmental impact while enhancing concrete durability. ASR performance of the so-produced UAACs was evaluated through the Miniature Concrete Prism Test (MCPT) across various aggregate reactivities. Most UAACs demonstrated significantly lower ASR expansion than portland cement mixtures, suggesting their viability as ASR-resistant materials. SEM and EDS analyses confirmed that UAACs generate fewer and less viscous ASR gels, with high alumina uptake and negligible levels of calcium enhancing their ASR resilience. Complementary non-invasive assessments on control UAAC specimens, including electrical resistivity, pore solution analysis, and pore structure analysis, were examined for their correlation with MCPT-determined ASR susceptibility. It was observed that mixtures with high inherent pH levels (∼13.34) in the pore solutions showed limited potential for ASR development and progression. Standard electrical resistivity measurements were strongly correlated with reduced ASR expansion in UAACs, with correlation coefficients of −0.85 for bulk resistivity and −0.90 for surface resistivity. Additionally, the native pore structure, particularly the volume of gel pores (<10 nm), appeared to significantly influence the ASR behavior of UAACs, even without exposure to aggressive conditions. These rapid peripheral indicators enable ASR forecasting in UAACs without extensive testing.
{"title":"Sustainable alkali-activated concrete with unconventional precursors for ASR mitigation: Mechanisms and alternative predictors using the miniature concrete prism test","authors":"Shubham Mishra , Farshad Rajabipour , Jan Olek , Sulapha Peethamparan","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100307","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100307","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study explores the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) mitigation potential of 11 unconventional precursors based alkali-activated concretes (UAACs) developed as sustainable alternatives to portland cement concrete. Using precursors such as calcined low-purity kaolinitic clays, volcanic ashes, coal bottom ash, and fluidized bed combustion ashes, these UAACs aim to reduce environmental impact while enhancing concrete durability. ASR performance of the so-produced UAACs was evaluated through the Miniature Concrete Prism Test (MCPT) across various aggregate reactivities. Most UAACs demonstrated significantly lower ASR expansion than portland cement mixtures, suggesting their viability as ASR-resistant materials. SEM and EDS analyses confirmed that UAACs generate fewer and less viscous ASR gels, with high alumina uptake and negligible levels of calcium enhancing their ASR resilience. Complementary non-invasive assessments on control UAAC specimens, including electrical resistivity, pore solution analysis, and pore structure analysis, were examined for their correlation with MCPT-determined ASR susceptibility. It was observed that mixtures with high inherent pH levels (∼13.34) in the pore solutions showed limited potential for ASR development and progression. Standard electrical resistivity measurements were strongly correlated with reduced ASR expansion in UAACs, with correlation coefficients of −0.85 for bulk resistivity and −0.90 for surface resistivity. Additionally, the native pore structure, particularly the volume of gel pores (<10 nm), appeared to significantly influence the ASR behavior of UAACs, even without exposure to aggressive conditions. These rapid peripheral indicators enable ASR forecasting in UAACs without extensive testing.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100307"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143785575","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The expanding global construction industry is driven by the need to develop sustainable alternatives to replace natural resources in concrete manufacturing. Reusing construction materials and increasing reuse effectiveness have emerged as popular study areas. Recently, the durability of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) has drawn attention of numerous researchers worldwide. This review paper discusses the different approaches used to predict the durability of RAC (deterministic, probabilistic, and artificial intelligence). In addition, a critical review of the parameters more influential on the RAC durability performance is presented, including replacement ratio, particle size, chemical admixtures and additives, mixing technique, and curing conditions. Several contradictory results concerning the chloride ingress, carbonation, air and water permeability in the RAC are reported and discussed. The methods used to enhance the characteristics coarse recycled aggregate (CRA) are also categorised and summarised. We have found that complex, non-linear, and multivariable mechanisms control chloride ingress, carbonation, and permeability, rendering conventional modelling techniques inadequate. It is therefore advised to use artificial intelligence methods supported by comprehensive databases to provide precise durability predictions. The performance of RAC is greatly impacted by the adhered mortar (AM) in CRA; its increased porosity and water absorption result in weaker interfacial transition zones (ITZs), decreasing impermeability, and weakening resistance to carbonation and chloride ingress. Therefore, we have also reported that strengthening the microstructure or altering AM characteristics are the main treatment strategies used to increase RAC durability performance. By enhancing RAC performance and lowering the ecological footprint of construction and demolition waste, CRA carbonation stands out among these techniques as a potential technology that offers both technical and environmental benefits.
{"title":"A review on deterioration Mechanisms, durability prediction and enhancement techniques for recycled aggregate concrete","authors":"Tien-Dung Nguyen , Rachid Cherif , Pierre-Yves Mahieux , Philippe Turcry , Emilio Bastidas-Arteaga","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100306","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100306","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The expanding global construction industry is driven by the need to develop sustainable alternatives to replace natural resources in concrete manufacturing. Reusing construction materials and increasing reuse effectiveness have emerged as popular study areas. Recently, the durability of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) has drawn attention of numerous researchers worldwide. This review paper discusses the different approaches used to predict the durability of RAC (deterministic, probabilistic, and artificial intelligence). In addition, a critical review of the parameters more influential on the RAC durability performance is presented, including replacement ratio, particle size, chemical admixtures and additives, mixing technique, and curing conditions. Several contradictory results concerning the chloride ingress, carbonation, air and water permeability in the RAC are reported and discussed. The methods used to enhance the characteristics coarse recycled aggregate (CRA) are also categorised and summarised. We have found that complex, non-linear, and multivariable mechanisms control chloride ingress, carbonation, and permeability, rendering conventional modelling techniques inadequate. It is therefore advised to use artificial intelligence methods supported by comprehensive databases to provide precise durability predictions. The performance of RAC is greatly impacted by the adhered mortar (AM) in CRA; its increased porosity and water absorption result in weaker interfacial transition zones (ITZs), decreasing impermeability, and weakening resistance to carbonation and chloride ingress. Therefore, we have also reported that strengthening the microstructure or altering AM characteristics are the main treatment strategies used to increase RAC durability performance. By enhancing RAC performance and lowering the ecological footprint of construction and demolition waste, CRA carbonation stands out among these techniques as a potential technology that offers both technical and environmental benefits.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100306"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143769049","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-07DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100304
Suliman Khan, Safat Al-Deen, Chi King Lee
This study develops three new Low Carbon Concrete (LCC) mix designs with characteristic cylinder compressive strengths of 32 MPa (C32), 25 MPa (C25), and 20 MPa (C20). By using a Taguchi design of experiment (T-DoE) model and combined it with Grey relational analysis (GRA) and Principal component analysis (PCA) for multi-response optimization, sixteen trial mixes employing supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to replace 80 % to 95 % of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) were tested. Three factors namely, OPC replacement percentage, ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS) to fly ash (FA) ratio, and silica fume (SF) to binder percentage were considered. Optimization results led to three LCC mix designs with 80 %, 85 %, and 90 % OPC replacement. Their compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, elastic modulus, and slump were evaluated. Confirmation tests showed that the 80 %, 85 % and 90 % OPC replacement mixes respectively satisfied requirements for C32, C25, and C20 concretes. Carbon footprint study showed that the LCC mixes led to significant reduction of carbon footprint when compared with OPC concrete. Finally, microstructure analysis was conducted to study in the microstructure characteristics of the LCCs.
{"title":"Development of low carbon concrete with high cement replacement ratio by multi-response optimization","authors":"Suliman Khan, Safat Al-Deen, Chi King Lee","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100304","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100304","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study develops three new Low Carbon Concrete (LCC) mix designs with characteristic cylinder compressive strengths of 32 MPa (C32), 25 MPa (C25), and 20 MPa (C20). By using a Taguchi design of experiment (T-DoE) model and combined it with Grey relational analysis (GRA) and Principal component analysis (PCA) for multi-response optimization, sixteen trial mixes employing supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to replace 80 % to 95 % of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) were tested. Three factors namely, OPC replacement percentage, ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS) to fly ash (FA) ratio, and silica fume (SF) to binder percentage were considered. Optimization results led to three LCC mix designs with 80 %, 85 %, and 90 % OPC replacement. Their compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, elastic modulus, and slump were evaluated. Confirmation tests showed that the 80 %, 85 % and 90 % OPC replacement mixes respectively satisfied requirements for C32, C25, and C20 concretes. Carbon footprint study showed that the LCC mixes led to significant reduction of carbon footprint when compared with OPC concrete. Finally, microstructure analysis was conducted to study in the microstructure characteristics of the LCCs.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"16 ","pages":"Article 100304"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-03-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143592476","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}