In the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam, a groundbreaking study led by Lam V. Tang of the Hanoi University of Mining and Geology (HUMG) is revolutionizing the construction industry’s approach to sustainability. Tang and his team have developed a innovative cement-free concrete material that not only reduces the carbon footprint but also actively absorbs carbon dioxide, marking a significant stride towards Vietnam’s goal of achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The research, published in ‘Nanotechnologies in Construction,’ focuses on utilizing local industrial and agricultural waste to create a “green” building material. The key ingredients include fly ash and bottom slag from the Green Star incineration plant, alumina sludge, ceramic waste, lime powder, and coconut fiber, all activated with a special alkaline solution. This blend results in a concrete that is not only eco-friendly but also economically viable.
“The main advantages of using cement-free concrete of the developed composition include reducing the carbon footprint due to the abandonment of the use of Portland cement, the ability of concrete to absorb carbon dioxide and the possibility of recycling high-tonnage man-made waste during its manufacture,” Tang explains. This innovative approach addresses two critical issues in the construction sector: the high carbon emissions from traditional cement production and the management of industrial waste.
The developed concrete boasts an average density of 1950 kg/m3, a compressive strength of 7.5–11.5 MPa at 28 days, and water absorption of 8–10% by weight. These properties make it a viable alternative to traditional concrete, especially in applications where sustainability is a priority. Moreover, the concrete’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide during its operational life adds an extra layer of environmental benefit.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are profound. By reducing the reliance on Portland cement, which is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, this new material could pave the way for more sustainable construction practices. Additionally, the use of industrial waste as a primary component opens up new avenues for waste management, potentially reducing the environmental impact of industrial operations.
Tang’s research highlights the potential for recycling about 1.1 tons of high-tonnage industrial waste per cubic meter of concrete produced. This not only reduces waste disposal costs but also creates a market for waste materials that were previously considered liabilities. “This will contribute to the implementation of the planned course for the ‘green’ transformation of Vietnam’s economy into a sustainable closed-loop economy,” Tang notes.
The energy sector, which is increasingly under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, stands to benefit significantly from this innovation. As construction projects increasingly adopt sustainable practices, the demand for low-carbon building materials is expected to rise. This research could catalyze a shift towards more eco-friendly construction methods, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The study published in ‘Nanotechnologies in Construction’ (translated from Russian) underscores the potential of innovative materials to drive sustainability in the construction industry. As Vietnam and other countries strive to meet their emission reduction targets, solutions like Tang’s cement-free concrete offer a promising path forward. The future of construction may well be green, and this research is a significant step in that direction.