Title:
A Life Cycle Holistic Perspective for Nanofunctionalized UHPC Structures in Aggressive Environments: Building Better, for Longer, with Less
Author(s):
Ferrara
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_S23_Ferrara.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
4/2/2023
Abstract:
The most recent advancements in the field of the concrete industry don’t only represent the possibility to satisfy the demand of an ever-changing market demand but could also be the opportunity to reach important improvements in terms of holistic sustainability which is an essential topic nowadays. In view of this, the current work investigates the case of nanofunctionalized Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) to address also the potential advantages coming from the better structural and durability performances when exposed in specific aggressive environmental scenario. The benefits of adding alumina nanofibers or cellulose nanofibrils/crystals in terms of enhanced crack control, reduced autogenous shrinkage and improved durability self-healing capacity will be quantified in a life cycle perspective, also considering the impact and cost of the nano-particle production. In this framework a holistic assessment perspective will be provided through the Life Cycle Assessment methodology, employed to quantify such advantages on a local, regional, and global scale using the worldwide recognized 10 CMLA impact categories to also show how such procedures, being employed within an “a priori” de-sign phase, can help to drive the sector to more conscious choices.