In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a recent study published in *Nature Scientific Reports* (known in English as *Scientific Reports*) has shed light on the promising potential of eco-friendly self-consolidating concretes (SCCs). Led by Rasoul Banar from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Amirkabir University of Technology, the research delves into the life cycle sustainability assessment of SCCs incorporating various supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs).
The construction industry is increasingly recognizing the need to reduce the environmental footprint of cement production. Banar’s study highlights that replacing cement with SCMs like silica fume (SF), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GS), metakaolin (MK), and pumice (PU) can significantly cut down CO₂ emissions. However, the study emphasizes that a holistic approach is essential, integrating technical, economic, and environmental performance indicators across all life-cycle stages.
The research evaluated 13 different mix designs of SCCs, assessing technical performance through measures like slump flow, compressive strength, and chloride migration. Economic and environmental impacts were also quantified, including a service life prediction model to estimate long-term environmental benefits. “We found that mixes containing 20% and 15% metakaolin or 15% silica fume demonstrated superior performance across combined technical, environmental, and economic criteria,” Banar explains. These mixes achieved CO₂ emission reductions of 94%, 93%, and 89% per cubic meter per service-year, respectively, compared to the control mixture.
One of the standout aspects of this study is the incorporation of expert opinions. A questionnaire was developed to prioritize the importance of various performance indicators from the perspective of construction professionals. The results revealed that experts placed the highest weightage on technical criteria (66%), followed by economic (21%) and environmental considerations (13%).
The implications of this research are significant for the construction industry, particularly in the energy sector where sustainable practices are increasingly prioritized. “This study provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the sustainability of green concretes, which can guide future developments and commercial applications,” Banar notes. By integrating expert insights, the research offers a practical approach to balancing technical performance, economic viability, and environmental responsibility.
As the industry moves towards more sustainable practices, the findings from Banar’s study could shape the future of construction materials. The use of SCMs not only reduces environmental impact but also offers economic benefits, making it a win-win scenario for both the industry and the planet. This research underscores the importance of a holistic approach to sustainability, ensuring that future developments in construction materials are both innovative and responsible.