A research team in materials engineering has developed a conventional concrete alternative with a 70 to 80 per cent reduction in carbon impact compared with ordinary Portland cement, making it ideal for building rural roads.
Traditional concrete production is a major source of carbon emissions, and while geopolymer concrete is a known lower-carbon alternative, it typically requires hazardous liquid chemicals, long-distance shipping and specialized handling on site.
Jie Wu at the University of Alberta, associate professor Tian Xiang at Changsha University of Science and Technology, and Rui Zhang at Ghent University have developed a “one-part” geopolymer concrete that recycles dry, solid ingredients — including industrial byproducts like coal fly ash, blast-furnace slag and calcium carbide residue — allowing workers to simply add water on site. It’s easier to transport and safer to handle.
The team tested the material in the laboratory and in a 200-metre pilot road project in Huitong County, China, proving it’s as strong and durable as standard cement. The study also showed that it’s cost-competitive with traditional cement, especially when materials are sourced within 70 kilometres of the construction site.
“Overall, this work provides actionable evidence that waste-based, low-carbon construction strategies can support rural revitalization, reduce environmental impacts and contribute to long-term climate mitigation while promoting more efficient use of industrial resources,” write the study’s authors.