In a significant stride towards sustainable construction, researchers have developed a novel type of concrete that could revolutionize stormwater management and urban infrastructure. The study, led by Joshi Tejas, an Assistant Professor at the Civil Engineering Department of Institute of Technology, Nirma University, focuses on no-fines alkali-activated concrete (AAC) as a viable alternative to traditional pervious concrete made with ordinary Portland cement (OPC). This innovative approach not only promises to reduce carbon footprints but also enhances permeability, a critical factor in managing urban waterlogging.
The research, published in the Slovak Journal of Civil Engineering (Slovak Journal of Civil Engineering), explores the use of industrial waste materials—fly ash and slag—as precursors, activated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3). By optimizing the activator-to-source material ratios (ASR), aggregate content, and NaOH concentrations, the team achieved a maximum compressive strength of 17.4 MPa under ambient curing conditions. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential of no-fines AAC to substitute OPC while maintaining durability and drainage efficiency.
“Our findings indicate that by carefully adjusting the NaOH concentration and ASR, we can achieve a balance between strength and permeability,” Joshi Tejas explained. “Lower NaOH concentrations preserved permeability but reduced strength, highlighting the importance of optimizing these parameters for practical applications.”
The study’s implications for the construction and energy sectors are profound. As urban areas grapple with increased flooding and waterlogging, the demand for high-permeability materials is on the rise. No-fines AAC offers a sustainable solution that can mitigate these issues while reducing the environmental impact of construction. By eliminating the need for sand and replacing OPC with alkali activators, this innovative material promotes long-term sustainability and durability.
“This research opens up new avenues for the construction industry to adopt more eco-friendly practices,” Joshi Tejas added. “The potential to reduce urban waterlogging and improve stormwater management is a significant step forward in creating resilient and sustainable cities.”
The commercial impact of this research is substantial. As governments and industries worldwide push for greener construction practices, the development of no-fines AAC could lead to a paradigm shift in material selection. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from the reduced carbon footprint associated with this innovative concrete, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
In conclusion, the study by Joshi Tejas and his team represents a significant advancement in the field of sustainable construction. By leveraging industrial waste materials and optimizing key parameters, they have demonstrated the feasibility of no-fines AAC as a practical, low-carbon, and high-permeability material. This research not only addresses critical environmental challenges but also paves the way for future developments in the construction and energy sectors. As the world continues to seek sustainable solutions, the insights from this study will undoubtedly shape the future of urban infrastructure and stormwater management.