Performance of environmentally friendly concrete fabricated　using alkali activated materials and low- quality recycled aggregates

To achieve carbon neutrality, the construction industry must implement proper resource circulation and reduce the carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions of construction materials throughout their life cycle (LC) by decarbonization and service-life extension. This study investigated the basic performance of environmentally friendly concrete (EFC) prepared using (i) low-quality recycled aggregate (RL) and (ii) alkali activated materials consisting of ground granulated blast-furnace slag and an alkali activator as a binder to clarify its applicability for pavement concrete. The results showed that, depending on the type of RL, the strength and static elastic modulus of EFC were only slightly lower than those of base concrete (BC) using ordinary Portland cement. However, because of its inferior resistance to carbonation and freeze–thaw damage, EFC was concluded to be suitable for use as continuously reinforced concrete in composite pavements installed underground. Furthermore, compared with BC, EFC demonstrated superior (CO₂) emission reduction and cost-effectiveness throughout its LC.
This paper is being recognized for its academically valuable findings and excellent English presentation. The results indicate that EFC holds promise for widespread and effective use in pavement concrete, which is expected to contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry in Japan and Korea, aligning with the purpose of the award and thus leading to its receipt.

*1 Presentation documents can be found at the URL below.
https://researchmap.jp/dosho/presentations/51807177?lang=en

*2 Conference overview
https://kic.or.kr/Conference/ConferenceView.asp?AC=0&CODE=CC20250501&B_CATE=BBC1