In a significant stride towards sustainable construction, researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking approach to enhance the performance of sprayed concrete while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions. This innovative method, developed by Weijian Dong from the College of Chemical Engineering at Nanjing Tech University, utilizes a green silica-lignin (SL) admixture synthesized from pulping wastewater produced during rice straw processing. The research highlights the potential of integrating recycled aggregates with this eco-friendly admixture, offering a dual benefit of improved concrete performance and a marked decrease in carbon footprint.
The findings are compelling. The introduction of the silica-lignin admixture resulted in a 46.3% increase in slump and a 28.5% boost in compressive strength of sprayed concrete. Additionally, the rebound ratio—a critical factor in the efficiency of sprayed concrete application—was reduced by an impressive 67.3%. This combination not only enhances the material’s structural integrity but also optimizes the construction process, leading to cost savings and increased productivity on job sites.
“We are at a pivotal moment in the construction industry where the demand for sustainable practices is paramount,” Dong stated. “Our research demonstrates that by replacing conventional high-carbon materials with our silica-lignin admixture, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions while enhancing the performance of concrete.”
The environmental implications of this research are profound. The use of recycled aggregates can lower the global warming potential (GWP) of sprayed concrete production. When 50% of the aggregates are recycled, carbon emissions plummet by 44.7%, bringing them down to just 183 kgCO2eq/m3. This aligns with the construction sector’s growing commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction, paving the way for greener building practices.
As the industry grapples with climate change and regulatory pressures, the adoption of such innovative materials could reshape construction methodologies. Companies that embrace these advancements may not only comply with environmental standards but also gain a competitive edge in a market increasingly driven by sustainability.
The research, published in ‘Low-Carbon Materials and Green Construction,’ underscores the importance of integrating low-carbon and carbon-negative materials in construction. As the sector continues to evolve, practices like those demonstrated by Dong and his team could become standard, redefining how concrete is produced and utilized.
For more insights into this pioneering research, visit Nanjing Tech University.