Stefan Hainer

Eco-Friendly Concretes With Reduced Water and Cement Content: Mix Design Principles and Experimental Tests

The major environmental impact of concrete is caused by CO 2 emissions during cement production. Great potential for reducing the impact is seen especially for concretes with normal strength. The use of superplasticizers and highly reactive cements as well as an optimization of particle-size distribution and reduction in water content allow a significant reduction in Portland cement clinker in the cement and concrete. Essential is the addition of mineral fillers (e.g., limestone powder) to provide an optimal paste volume. In addition, the already practicable substitution of secondary raw materials like fly ash or furnace slag for cement clinker is an appropriate option that is, however, limited by the availability of these resources.