In the quest to build a more sustainable future, the construction industry is increasingly turning to supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to reduce the carbon footprint of concrete. However, these materials can alter the way concrete reacts to carbonation, a process that can significantly impact the durability and lifespan of structures. A recent study, published in the RILEM Technical Letters, sheds new light on this complex issue, offering insights that could revolutionize how we approach concrete construction, particularly in the energy sector.
The RILEM Technical Committee (TC) 281-CCC, led by Nele De Belie from Ghent University, has been at the forefront of this research. The committee, which operated from 2018 to 2024, brought together over 120 experts from around the world to delve into the intricacies of carbonation in concrete with SCMs. Their work, divided into five working groups, covered everything from the fundamental mechanisms of carbonation to its practical implications for corrosion and structural integrity.
One of the key findings of the committee was the need for a more nuanced understanding of how different SCMs affect carbonation. “We found that the type and amount of SCM can significantly alter the carbonation process,” De Belie explains. “This means that one-size-fits-all approaches to assessing carbonation resistance are no longer sufficient.”
This has significant implications for the energy sector, where concrete is a primary material for constructing power plants, wind turbines, and other critical infrastructure. The durability of these structures is paramount, as their failure can lead to costly repairs and downtime. By understanding how SCMs affect carbonation, engineers can design more resilient structures that require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan.
The committee’s work also highlighted the need for improved testing methodologies. Existing standards, developed primarily for ordinary Portland cement, may not accurately reflect the behavior of concrete with SCMs. This could lead to inaccurate assessments of carbonation resistance, potentially compromising the safety and longevity of structures.
Looking ahead, the findings of the RILEM TC 281-CCC could pave the way for new standards and guidelines in the construction industry. By providing a more accurate understanding of carbonation in concrete with SCMs, these guidelines could help ensure the durability and safety of structures, particularly in the energy sector.
The committee’s work, published in a topical collection in Materials and Structures and one article in RILEM Technical Letters, which translates to the English name of the journal as “RILEM Technical Letters,” includes a mix of critical review papers, original research, and recommendations. These publications serve as a comprehensive resource for industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers seeking to understand and mitigate the impacts of carbonation in concrete with SCMs.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the insights gained from this research will be invaluable. They offer a roadmap for developing more sustainable and durable concrete structures, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and energy-efficient future. The work of the RILEM TC 281-CCC is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of scientific inquiry in shaping the future of our built environment.