Title:
Solutions to Support More Sustainable Construction Practices
Author(s):
Bruce J. Christensen and Christian Huebsch
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
289
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
1-12
Keywords:
sustainability, UHSC, seeding, SCC, SCM, nanofoam, Eco-Efficiency
DOI:
10.14359/51684262
Date:
9/14/2012
Abstract:
There are a number of the current and developing solutions to support more sustainable construction. Highly fluid concretes in the 30 MPa (4500 psi) strength class are now available to support faster construction, more durable elements, use of higher filler contents, and lower waste contents. Concretes with supplementary cement contents of as high as 80% of the binder with similar setting and strength characteristics to conventional OPC systems are now possible, further reducing the carbon footprint of concrete. Precast concretes that develop stripping strengths in a matter of a few hours significantly reduce the energy consumption for curing and also facilitate the use of higher filler contents. Wall systems with thermal conductivities 2-3 times lower than conventional materials are now becoming commercially available, which can further reduce the energy consumed for heating and cooling during the life of a structure. A common element of the solutions mentioned here is that they are enabled by latest technology construction chemicals.