In a groundbreaking study published in *Case Studies in Construction Materials* (translated from French as *Case Studies in Construction Materials*), researchers have unlocked a promising avenue for reducing the carbon footprint of the construction industry. The study, led by Ibrahim Messaoudene from the Geomaterials Laboratory (LDGM) at M’sila University in Algeria, explores the potential of eco-optimized ternary mortars incorporating industrial waste. The findings could significantly impact the energy sector by offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional cement-based mortars.
The research focuses on partially substituting 30% of Portland cement with a ternary combination of blast furnace slag (BFS), brick waste powder (BWP), and marble waste powder (MWP). By employing a statistical mixture design, the team developed ten mortar compositions to evaluate the influence of these industrial by-products on mechanical properties, microstructure, and environmental performance.
The results are compelling. Formulations containing 33–66% BFS and 33–50% BWP demonstrated significant improvements in long-term strength. Compressive strength increased from 17.5 to 55.1 MPa, and flexural strength from 7.52 to 12.6 MPa at 180 days. “The enhanced mechanical properties are attributed to the synergistic pozzolanic interaction between BFS and BWP,” explained Messaoudene. “This interaction leads to reduced porosity and improved matrix densification, which are crucial for the durability and performance of the mortar.”
Microstructural analysis using SEM-EDX confirmed these findings, revealing that BWP acts both as a reactive aluminosilicate and a micro-filler, while MWP behaves as an inert filler. The optimal formulation, comprising 63% BWP and 37% BFS, exhibited superior mechanical and environmental performance. “The exclusion of MWP was due to its limited reactivity, but the combination of BFS and BWP proved to be highly effective,” Messaoudene noted.
The study also highlights the environmental benefits of these eco-optimized mortars. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and cost analysis showed that formulations with BFS and BWP reduced CO₂ emissions by up to 35% and energy consumption by 30%, while remaining cost-effective. “This research establishes an integrated framework combining materials science, statistical modeling, and life cycle analysis,” Messaoudene said. “It supports the adoption of circular economy strategies in the construction sector, which is crucial for reducing our environmental impact.”
The implications for the energy sector are significant. As the construction industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, the adoption of eco-efficient mortars could play a pivotal role. The study’s predictive models, derived from the ternary mixture design, exhibited high accuracy (R² = 0.95–0.99), enabling efficient mix optimization. This could lead to the development of new, sustainable construction materials that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable.
The research published in *Case Studies in Construction Materials* offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable construction. By leveraging industrial waste and advanced statistical modeling, the construction industry can move towards a more circular economy, reducing waste and lowering carbon emissions. As Messaoudene and his team continue to explore the potential of these eco-optimized mortars, the construction and energy sectors can look forward to a more sustainable future.