Sustainable concrete formulations for sustainable reinforced structures exposed to chloride induced corrosion

Abstract

Reinforced concrete (RC) is the most used construction material for infrastructure due to its strength and durability. However, under chloride exposure, often the RC structures do not achieve their designed service life. Therefore, premature repairs or even replacement of components is required, hence increasing the environmental impacts and economic costs over the entire service life. This study evaluates the sustainability of low-clinker cements as a corrosion prevention measure in reinforced concrete under several chloride exposures conditions. Through a life cycle assessment (LCA), the environmental impacts of a RC generic element are evaluated, considering three alternatives for low-clinker cement and ordinary Portland cement as reference. The materials production and use service are considered in the LCA. The service phase includes the repair activities necessary to keep a defined level of serviceability given the steel corrosion due to chloride ingress. The number of repairs is determined on a probabilistic durability assessment. The results showed that the durability of the reinforced element plays a major role in the overall environmental impacts. Furthermore, low-clinker binders have a positive environmental impact in the sustainability of reinforced concrete structures.