Green Concretes : Principle Design Approaches for Materials and Components

Abstract

This article deals with the evaluation and design of eco-concretes (green concretes) and structural components made from them. Such concretes are characterized by a pronouncedly reduced CO2 footprint compared to conventional structural concretes made with Portland cement clinker. After an introduction to the sustainability problems of today’s structural concretes, the basic approaches to the development of sustainable concretes are presented. The specific parameter Concrete Sustainability Potential is introduced, which combines the main effecting parameters environmental impact, service life (durability) and performance (strength). An overview in possibilities available today for producing green concrete mixtures is given. Certain emphasis is placed on eco-concretes, in which a large proportion of the cement is replaced by rock powders. Further, a new and innovative relationship for sustainability design is introduced. This concept is equally applicable to concrete as a material and to components made from it. The article concludes with considerations on the implementation of this new concept in practice.