UHP.RTYF.Geo-Crete: Eco-Innovation: Development of Sustainable and Affordable Ultra High Performance Geopolymer Concrete for Industrial Floor Applicat

Lead Research Organisation: University of Sheffield
Department Name: Civil and Structural Engineering

Abstract

The drying shrinkage and the concrete spalling during the catastrophic fire can lead to serviceability and the structural failures, in particular, for ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). UHPC is a new and versatile concrete, yet, its extensive application is hindered by high materials cost and high adverse impact on environments. The key objectives of the proposed project are to develop novel, innovative, crack-resistant, fire-resistant, low-cost, user and eco-friendly, lower energy, low carbon footprint, sustainable and durable Ultra High Performance GeoPolymer Concrete (UHPGPC) using Recycled Steel Fibres derived from waste Tyres (RTSF) and Recycled Aggregates (RA). This will lead to "UHP.RTYF.Geo-Crete" which can be used as slabs on grade for the large industrial floors and tunnels amongst other applications. This project will investigate the shrinkage cracking and the fire-induced spalling mechanisms, the fibre-matrix compatibility, durability, thermal, physical, mechanical, and the micro-structural properties through the multidisciplinary investigations including, FTIR, SEM-EDS, TGA-DTA, XRD, MIP and X ray CT scanning. Also, it will deal with the present challenges of UHPC viz., higher materials cost; CO2 emissions; depletion of restricted natural aggregate resources; pollution of environment, soil, surface and sub-surface water as well as health hazards associated with the unsystematic disposal of discarded tyres, industrial wastes and Construction & Demolition Wastes (CDW). The University of Sheffield, U.K. is world leading in Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC) design and re-using wastes in concrete. It will also offer a broad and comprehensive training to the fellow in order to establish her as an independent researcher.

Publications

10 25 50
 
Description A cementless mix design for ultra-high performance geopolymer concrete (UHPGPC) was developed using a blend of industrial wastes for both fines and aggregates, achieving excellent workability and compressive strength values in excess of 120MPa.
Recycled steel fibres were successfully included to increase flexural strength and toughness.
Preliminary results on durability indicators suggest good long-term performance.
Exploitation Route Key findings will assist in the effective reuse of waste streams from different industries in high performance concretes and reduce reliance on OPC. Cement manufacturers and concrete plants will be the main industry beneficiaries.
The project will also provide experimental evidence and data that can be used by all key stakeholders to develop more reliable long term predictive models for the structural performance of solutions including the newly developed UHPGPC, as well as more accurate life cycle assessment models.
Sectors Construction

Environment
URL https://sites.google.com/sheffield.ac.uk/uhp-rtyf-geo-crete/home
 
Description The project will: enable upcycling of industrial waste in cost-effective cementless sustainable concrete and stimulate new growth in the construction industry; promote new material solutions for innovative construction products; promote circular economy.
Sector Construction,Environment
Impact Types Societal

Economic
 
Description Research Seminar 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact A presentation was delivered to research students, academics and visiting professors on the research background, aims and objectives of the award. The talk raised awareness on the opportunities that cement-free UHPC concretes can unlock and generated interest for their use in different applications, which will be further considered during the project as possible avenues for future work.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023