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Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures
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Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures

A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This special issue belongs to the section "Building Structures".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 February 2027 | Viewed by 3665

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Robin Kalfat

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Civil and Construction Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, John St, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
Interests: civil engineering; materials engineering; structural strengthening and rehabilitation
Dr. Jessey Lee

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Civil and Construction Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, John St, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
Interests: advanced structural engineering

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue, entitled “Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures”, explores the latest advancements in sustainable concrete technologies aimed at reducing environmental impact while enhancing structural performance. Key topics include low-carbon concrete solutions, such as geopolymer concrete, cement replacements (e.g., calcined clays and limestone), recycled aggregates, and crushed brick materials that reduce reliance on traditional Portland cement. Additionally, this Special Issue examines the role of nano additives in improving mechanical strength, durability, and self-healing properties.

Beyond material innovations, this Special Issue also investigates life cycle assessments, recyclability, and eco-friendly construction methods for sustainable concrete structures. The retrofitting and strengthening of aging infrastructures are highlighted, with a focus on fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) and the use of post-installed fastenings  (e.g., haunch retrofitting) for structural rehabilitation and strengthening. Materials such as fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) provide lightweight, corrosion-resistant alternatives to traditional strengthening methods, extending service life and enhancing resilience.

This Special Issue welcomes experimental studies, numerical simulations, analytical models, and case studies that assess the performance, durability, and environmental impact of these emerging concrete technologies, bridging the gap between research and real-world applications.

Dr. Robin Kalfat
Dr. Jessey Lee
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • green concrete
  • geopolymer concrete
  • low-carbon concrete
  • sustainable concrete structures
  • strengthening and retrofitting
  • fiber composite materials
  • concrete durability
  • post-installed fastenings
  • life cycle assessment (LCA)
  • nano additives

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

22 pages, 5499 KB  
Article
Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Three-Segment Precast Bridge Columns with Grouted Sleeve-Unbonded Prestressing Hybrid Connections
by Bo Yi, Ningyu Zhao, Guozheng Chen, Haitao Tang, Boheng Zhang and Guan Wang
Buildings 2026, 16(5), 1041; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16051041 - 6 Mar 2026
Viewed by 277
Abstract
Precast bridge columns offer efficiency and environmental benefits, yet complex mountainous terrain and limited workspace severely restrict the transportation of large segments. To address this challenge and the limited ductility of traditional connections, this study proposes a multi-segment precast bridge column with hybrid [...] Read more.
Precast bridge columns offer efficiency and environmental benefits, yet complex mountainous terrain and limited workspace severely restrict the transportation of large segments. To address this challenge and the limited ductility of traditional connections, this study proposes a multi-segment precast bridge column with hybrid connections (PSC-GSPT) utilizing grouted sleeves and unbonded prestressing tendons. Quasi-static tests and OpenSees simulations compared a three-segment PSC-GSPT specimen with a cast-in-place (CIP) column. Results demonstrate that the hybrid system shifts the plastic hinge above the sleeves due to their high stiffness, ensuring controlled damage. Compared to the CIP specimen, the PSC-GSPT increased peak load by 30.2% and ductility by 20.7%, while exhibiting excellent self-centering capability and 27% higher cumulative energy dissipation. Numerical parametric analysis indicates that a central tendon configuration delays yielding, boosting ductility by over 15% versus perimeter layouts, and an initial prestress level of 30% is recommended to optimize both self-centering and ductility. This study provides a theoretical basis for applying high-performance precast piers in transportation-restricted environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures)
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31 pages, 7543 KB  
Article
Mechanical Properties and Reproducibility of One-Part Ambient-Cured Slag and Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Concrete
by Daro Sun, Jessey Lee, Alireza Mohyeddin and Janitha Migunthanna
Buildings 2026, 16(4), 707; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16040707 - 9 Feb 2026
Viewed by 946
Abstract
The cement industry is a major source of anthropogenic CO2 emissions due to its energy-intensive production process and calcination of limestone. Producing one ton of cement emits approximately one ton of CO2, and cement accounts for about 5% to 8% [...] Read more.
The cement industry is a major source of anthropogenic CO2 emissions due to its energy-intensive production process and calcination of limestone. Producing one ton of cement emits approximately one ton of CO2, and cement accounts for about 5% to 8% of global CO2 emissions. In this context, cement-less one-part (“just-add-water”) ambient-cured geopolymer concrete (GPC) has gained attention due to its environmental friendliness and practicality for large-scale cast-in-situ construction. However, field adoption remains limited, mainly due to the scarcity of data on mechanical properties and durability, as well as the lack of widely accepted standards and specifications. This paper is part of the larger research on tensile performance of anchors embedded in GPC. It is well understood that the tensile performance of anchors installed in concrete substrate is largely influenced by their effective embedment depth and the substrate’s mechanical properties, particularly the fracture energy and modulus of elasticity. Therefore, prior to the investigation of the tensile performance of anchors in GPC, it is crucial to understand the mechanical behaviour of the GPC substrate itself. This study examined key parameters that influence the compressive strength of one-part ambient-cured slag/fly ash-based GPC. The alkali content, slag content, water-to-solid (W/S) ratio, and aggregate content were investigated. Additionally, various mechanical properties such as uniaxial tensile strength, splitting tensile strength, elastic modulus, and fracture energy of the hardened GPC are presented. The test results revealed that higher slag and activator content enhanced compressive strength, whereas a higher aggregate content reduced the strength. The strength gain was also attributed to higher alkali content, lower W/S ratio, and increased binder content; however, excessive alkali and an overly low W/S ratio caused rapid setting due to accelerated reaction kinetics. The 7-day compressive strength ranged from 62% to 78% of the 28-day strength, while there was no notable strength gain after 28 days of curing. The developed GPC attained compressive strengths of over 40 MPa at 28 days and 50 MPa at 56 days. The uniaxial tensile strength test demonstrated a ratio of 0.87 relative to splitting tensile strength. The findings also indicated that the aggregate conditions and curing regimes (whether using as-is aggregates with moisture curing or oven-dried aggregates with sealed curing) had no meaningful effect on the mean compressive strength of GPC and its reproducibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures)
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24 pages, 3267 KB  
Article
Thermomechanical Performance of Ambient-Cured Fly Ash Geopolymers Under Fire Exposure: Role of Activator Type and Mix Design
by Hamzeh Shdeifat, Robin Kalfat and Riadh Al-Mahaidi
Buildings 2026, 16(2), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16020327 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 568
Abstract
Fly ash–based geopolymers have emerged as a promising alternative to ordinary Portland cement, offering high mechanical strength and reduced environmental footprint. However, they are often limited by significant shrinkage and strength degradation when subjected to elevated temperatures. To enhance their thermomechanical performance and [...] Read more.
Fly ash–based geopolymers have emerged as a promising alternative to ordinary Portland cement, offering high mechanical strength and reduced environmental footprint. However, they are often limited by significant shrinkage and strength degradation when subjected to elevated temperatures. To enhance their thermomechanical performance and thermal stability, this study investigates the effects of mix proportioning parameters, alkali activator type, and thermal shock on performance deterioration. Compressive strength was evaluated for sodium- and potassium-activated fly ash geopolymer composites as a function of alkaline activator (AA) ratios, both under ambient curing and after exposure to the ISO 834 standard fire curve for 1 and 2 h. Volume change, mass loss, and density variation were analysed to interpret mechanical behaviour and relate it to structural transformations, while XRF, XRD, SEM, and particle size distribution were employed for material characterisation. Results indicate that rapid temperature changes, whether from thermal shock or high fire-heating rates, induced notable additional thermal degradation. Sodium activation achieved the highest compressive strength retention of 145% at one hour of firing, while potassium activation showed superior thermal stability with delayed densification, reaching 154% strength retention at two hours. Furthermore, SiO2/M2O ratio exerted the strongest influence on both mechanical and thermomechanical performance. Overall, the findings highlight that the activator type, SiO2/M2O ratio, and rapid temperature changes collectively exert strong control over the thermomechanical and thermophysical response of fly ash geopolymers at elevated temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures)
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24 pages, 12169 KB  
Article
Using Nonlinear Simulation to Analyze the Bearing Performance and Engineering Application of Partial Strengthening and Replacement Composite Shear Walls Without Support Roof
by Naiwen Ke, Yuwei Liu, Zexin Yao, Jie Deng, Xianglan Wei, Guangyu Wu and Yigang Jia
Buildings 2025, 15(23), 4262; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15234262 - 25 Nov 2025
Viewed by 445
Abstract
With the advancement of construction development, urban renewal, and urbanization, engineering appraisal and structural reinforcement will become crucial tasks in the construction industry, thus presenting both significant challenges and long-term responsibilities. The concept of “partial strengthening and replacement composite shear walls without support [...] Read more.
With the advancement of construction development, urban renewal, and urbanization, engineering appraisal and structural reinforcement will become crucial tasks in the construction industry, thus presenting both significant challenges and long-term responsibilities. The concept of “partial strengthening and replacement composite shear walls without support roof” refers to a structural system that utilizes the existing load-bearing capacity of RC shear walls. In this method, high-performance materials are used to locally remove and replace critical load-bearing sections of the wall to be strengthened, resulting in a “composite shear wall” structure composed of both strengthened replacement areas and non-replaced sections. This study proposes the concept of composite shear walls, conducts simulation analysis and exploratory research on their bearing performance, and explores engineering applications based on engineering examples. The research conclusions include the following: Compared to only one batch of replacement reinforcement, partial strengthening and replacement in batches can significantly improve the bearing performance of composite shear walls. The use of steel-reinforced concrete for local strengthening and replacement can significantly improve the bearing performance of composite shear walls, and the magnitude of the improvement in bearing performance decreases with the increase in the initial vertical stress level of the components. The overall structural stress condition after local strengthening and replacement reinforcement is good, and its vertical and horizontal bearing capacity can meet the original design requirements (after reinforcement, the vertical bearing capacity of the overall structure increased by about 6.3% compared to the original design, and the horizontal ultimate bearing capacity is about 1.4 times larger compared to the elastic–plastic “large earthquake” effect of the original design). Compared with conventional replacement methods, the unsupported-roof local reinforcement replacement method has the advantages of using high-performance materials, reducing reinforcement engineering, minimizing resource waste, and simplifying construction procedures, and has good application prospects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures)
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23 pages, 5320 KB  
Article
Mechanical and Fatigue Performance of Recycled Concrete Aggregate Blended with Waste Tyre Rubber Stabilised with Slag for Pavement Application
by Fatima Juveria, Janitha Migunthanna, Pathmanathan Rajeev and Jay Sanjayan
Buildings 2025, 15(21), 3852; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15213852 - 24 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 827
Abstract
Waste tyre rubber (TR) from end-of-life tyres poses a major environmental challenge. Therefore, recycling this waste into useful applications contributes to sustainable waste management strategies and supports a circular economy. Rubber possesses properties that can enhance the flexibility and ductility of pavements, making [...] Read more.
Waste tyre rubber (TR) from end-of-life tyres poses a major environmental challenge. Therefore, recycling this waste into useful applications contributes to sustainable waste management strategies and supports a circular economy. Rubber possesses properties that can enhance the flexibility and ductility of pavements, making it a feasible material for use in road infrastructure. This study investigates the mechanical and fatigue performance of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) mixed with waste TR. RCA was partially replaced at three different levels: 5%, 10% and 15% by weight. To mitigate the loss in mechanical strength associated with rubber inclusion, the TR + RCA mixes were stabilised through geopolymerisation using slag as a precursor. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) increased with higher binder content. For instance, the mix containing 15% TR and stabilised with 5% slag geopolymer achieved a UCS of only 0.7 MPa, whereas increasing the binder content to 15% raised the UCS to 2.2 MPa. Similarly, resilient modulus improved with increasing slag content. Results from the four-point bending fatigue test showed that replacing RCA with rubber particles enhanced the fatigue performance of the mixes. The initial fatigue modulus of 100% RCA mix stabilised with 15% binder was 13,690 MPa, which reduced to 9740 MPa when 10% TR was introduced. In contrast, the number of cycles to reach half the initial modulus increased by four times when the TR content was raised from 0% to 15%. Microstructural observations of the slag-stabilised TR + RCA mixes showed improved microstructure due to geopolymerisation. Only insignificant traces of arsenic (<0.0008 mg/L) and barium (<0.000208 mg/L) were present in the TR + RCA mixes, while all other concerning heavy metals, including mercury and lead, were not detected in the leaching test. This indicates that there is no potential risk of soil or groundwater contamination, confirming the environmental safety of using slag geopolymer-stabilised TR + RCA mixes in subbase applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Performance in Green Concrete Structures)
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