In the quest for sustainable marine construction, researchers have turned to an unlikely trio of industrial byproducts, transforming them into a promising new material that could reshape the industry. Yun-Xin Chen, a researcher from the School of Civil & Environmental Engineering and Geography Science at Ningbo University in China, has led a study that could significantly impact the construction and energy sectors.
The study, published in *Case Studies in Construction Materials* (translated as “典型案例集” in Chinese), focuses on the development of novel activation materials derived from phosphogypsum (PG), granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), and calcium carbide slag (CS). These materials, often considered waste, have been repurposed to create a sustainable alternative for marine construction.
Chen and his team discovered that the PG-GGBS-CS system not only sets faster than traditional PG-GGBS-ordinary Portland cement (OPC) systems but also shows a remarkable increase in strength between 7 and 28 days. “The addition of CS, particularly at 5 wt%, significantly enhances the strength development, achieving a 28-day strength of 33.5 MPa,” Chen explained. This finding is crucial for marine construction, where rapid setting and high early strength are essential for withstanding harsh environmental conditions.
The research employed various characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TG-DTG), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). These methods confirmed that the primary reaction products are ettringite (AFt), calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-(A-)S-H) gels, and bayerite. However, excess CS was found to lower the reaction degree and create porous microstructures, which compromise mechanical performance.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By utilizing industrial byproducts, the study offers a sustainable solution for marine construction, reducing the environmental impact of the industry. “This work demonstrates the feasibility of large-scale PG utilization and provides a viable route toward the development of fully solid-waste-based marine construction materials,” Chen stated.
For the energy sector, this research could lead to new opportunities for waste management and resource efficiency. As the demand for sustainable construction materials grows, the PG-GGBS-CS system could become a valuable alternative, reducing the reliance on traditional materials and lowering carbon emissions.
The study’s findings open doors for future developments in the field. As Chen noted, “The potential for large-scale application of these materials is significant, and further research could optimize the composition and processing methods to enhance performance and sustainability.”
In conclusion, this innovative research highlights the potential of industrial byproducts in creating sustainable construction materials. By turning waste into a valuable resource, Chen and his team have paved the way for a more environmentally friendly and resource-efficient future in marine construction and beyond.