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A special issue of Journal of Composites Science (ISSN 2504-477X). This special issue belongs to the section "Composites Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2026 | Viewed by 9620

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Editors

Dr. Zhe Li

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Guest Editor

China Institute of Ocean Engineering (Tsing Tao), Qingdao, China
Interests: durability evaluation; lifespan prediction; smart sensor systems for marine concrete structures; bridging structural health monitoring with sustainable coastal engineering

Dr. Shi Hu

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Guest Editor

School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
Interests: construction and demolition waste; 3D printing concrete; sustainable cementitious materials; intelligent construction; engineered cementitious composite
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Dr. Zhiyou Jia

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Guest Editor

Department of Civil Engineering, University of Minho, Campus of Azurém, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal
Interests: sustainable building materials; smart concrete; durability of concrete; recycled aggregates; building thermal comfort; energy efficiency in buildings; phase change materials (PCM) technology

Dr. Chuang He

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Guest Editor

School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China
Interests: concrete corrosion protection; carbon nanomaterials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recent advances in material science and sustainability-driven engineering have profoundly reshaped how we design, produce, and maintain concrete structures. Traditional cementitious materials are facing challenges due to aggressive environmental exposures, increasing structural demands, and global carbon emission targets. In this context, the development of advanced cement-based materials composites with enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and multifunctional performance has become a key area of research. Additionally, the integration of recycled components, smart sensors, phase change materials (PCMs), and nano-modifications is enabling new pathways toward sustainable, resilient, and energy-efficient construction.

We are pleased to invite you to contribute to this Special Issue, which aims to present cutting-edge research and comprehensive reviews in the field of high-performance and sustainable cementitious materials. By bridging novel material design, service life prediction, corrosion inhibition, and thermal energy management, this Special Issue seeks to address current challenges and promote innovations for concrete infrastructures and buildings, especially in marine, underground, and coastal environments.

This Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive platform for recent developments in concrete durability enhancement, low-carbon cementitious composites, and multifunctional material systems that address both mechanical and environmental performance. It aligns well with the journal’s scope by emphasizing material innovation, structural health monitoring, energy efficiency, and lifecycle sustainability in construction engineering.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

Cement-based materials composites;
Corrosion protection of reinforced concrete and service life modeling;
Nano-modification of cementitious materials using carbon-based nanomaterials;
Spray concrete technologies for tunnel applications;
Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECCs): mechanical and durability performance;
Low-carbon binder systems such as limestone calcined clay cement (LC3);
Utilization of recycled aggregates in durable and thermal performance concrete;
Integration of phase change materials (PCMs) for building energy efficiency;
Smart concrete systems and embedded sensors for structural health monitoring;
Crack control, permeability, and long-term durability of concrete in harsh environments;
Sustainable concrete design for marine and coastal infrastructures.

We look forward to showcasing the latest advancements that push the boundaries of durable and sustainable cement-based materials, and hope to hear from you.

Dr. Zhe Li
Dr. Shi Hu
Dr. Zhiyou Jia
Dr. Chuang He
Guest Editors

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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-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Composites Science is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 1800 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

sustainable concrete
concrete durability
corrosion inhibition
carbon nanomaterials
cementitious composites
nano-modification of concrete
marine concrete
rebar corrosion
cracks
service life
engineered cementitious composite
low carbon
spray concrete
mechanical properties
limestone calcined clay cements (LC3)
recycled aggregates

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 2913 KB

Open AccessArticle

Reliable Compressive Strength Prediction of Self-Compacting Concrete with Recycled Coarse Aggregate Using an Interpretable Machine Learning Model (LightGBM) with Uncertainty Quantification

by Bojan Milošević, Nenad Kojić and Milanko Kragović

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(8), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10080379 - 23 Jul 2026

Viewed by 775

Abstract

Machine learning is increasingly used to predict the compressive strength of self-compacting concrete with recycled coarse aggregate (SCRCAC), with coefficients of determination of 0.81–0.87 reported in the literature. This paper first shows that the widely used reference dataset of 603 mixtures contains only 504 unique compositions, with 84 groups of identical and 21 contradictory ones, so that identical mixtures leak between the training and test sets. Under an objective, leakage-free evaluation (with the model re-tuned on the deduplicated dataset), the coefficient of determination drops to about 0.73, a correction that applies to all models on this dataset. We then propose an interpretable, hyperparameter-optimized LightGBM model that (i) reaches the level of the best published results under the standard protocol (seed-averaged five-fold cross-validation (CV) R² = 0.813); (ii) provides a calibrated uncertainty interval for each prediction via split-conformal prediction, achieving an empirical coverage of 0.906 at the 90% nominal level; and (iii) remains fully explainable (SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations), partial dependence), with cement as the dominant predictor, followed by water and the mineral admixture. Under a 70/30 protocol averaged over 25 splits, it achieves an R² = 0.794 ± 0.038 and a root mean squared error (RMSE) = 6.20 ± 0.48 MPa, exceeding all four machine learning models of the reference study. Aspects in which the reference study retains an advantage are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Low-Carbon Concrete Composites)

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26 pages, 34839 KB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure–Property Relationships in Epoxy Matrices Modified with Portland Cement and Microsilica

by Sergey A. Stel’makh, Evgenii M. Shcherban’, Alexey N. Beskopylny, Diana M. Shakhalieva, Andrei Chernil’nik, Ivan Vialikov, Natalya Shcherban’, Anastasia Tyutina and Yasin Onuralp Özkılıç

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(7), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10070356 - 3 Jul 2026

Viewed by 1026

Abstract

In this study, the effect of the epoxy resin and mineral filler ratio on the density, compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and structure of polymer matrices was investigated. The combined effect of Portland cement and microsilica on the structure–property relationship of epoxy matrices remains insufficiently understood. The control mixture was made from 100% epoxy resin with a hardener. Various types of mineral fillers, Portland cement (PC), microsilica (MS) and their mixtures were introduced by volume from 0 to 50% in increments of 10%. Experimental findings indicate that an optimal resin addition to a polymer matrix enhances strength and, consequently, decreases expenses. Epoxy–polymer matrices with an optimal mineral filler content of up to 30% demonstrate the highest durability. The increases in compressive and flexural strength for the matrix with 30% PC were 7.3% and 11.5%, for the matrix with 30% MS they were 4.1% and 4.4%, and the increases were 11.2% and 13.2% for the matrix with 15%PC+15%MS. Introducing a mineral filler increases the density of epoxy–polymer matrices up to 50%. Water absorption of polymer matrices increases as the amount of mineral filler in the matrix increases. The microstructure of polymer matrices with mineral fillers is dense and homogeneous, with a small number of pores. In optimal quantities, the mineral filler is evenly distributed in the polymer binder, improves the particle packing density, and creates additional stress redistribution centers. The polymer matrix of 70% epoxy resin, 15% PC and 15% MS is the most optimal in terms of the properties obtained: a density of 1282 kg/m3; compressive strength of 54.7 MPa; flexural strength of 20.6 MPa; and water absorption of 0.94%. In the future, it is planned to use this epoxy–polymer matrix composition in the development of high-performance concrete intended for manufacturing machine tool beds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Low-Carbon Concrete Composites)

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49 pages, 7377 KB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Assessment of Barite- and Magnetite-Based Self-Compacting Concrete Composites for Radiation Shielding Applications

by Ajitanshu Vedrtnam, Kishor Kalauni, Shashikant Chaturvedi and Martin T. Palou

J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(10), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9100542 - 3 Oct 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2156

Abstract

The growing demand for radiation-shielded infrastructure highlights the need for materials that balance shielding performance with environmental and economic sustainability. Heavyweight self-compacting concretes (HWSCC), commonly produced with barite (BaSO₄) or magnetite (Fe₃O₄) aggregates, lack systematic life cycle comparisons. The aim of this study is to systematically compare barite- and magnetite-based HWSCC in terms of life cycle environmental impacts, life cycle cost, functional performance (strength and shielding), and end-of-life circularity, in order to identify the more sustainable and cost-effective material for radiation shielding infrastructure. This study applies cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analysis (LCC), in accordance with ISO 14040/14044 and ISO 15686-5, to evaluate barite- and magnetite-based HWSCC. Results show that magnetite concrete reduces global warming potential by 19% eutrophication by 24%, and fossil resource depletion by 23%, while lowering life cycle costs by ~23%. Both concretes achieve comparable compressive strength (~48 MPa) and shielding efficiency (µ ≈ 0.28–0.30 cm⁻¹), meeting NCRP 147 and IAEA SRS-47 standards. These findings demonstrate that magnetite-based HWSCC offers a more sustainable, cost-effective, and ethically sourced alternative for radiation shielding in healthcare, nuclear, and industrial applications. In addition, the scientific significance of this work lies in establishing a transferable methodological framework that combines LCA, LCC, and performance-normalized indicators. This enables scientists and practitioners worldwide to benchmark heavyweight concretes consistently and to adapt sustainability-informed material choices to their own regional contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Low-Carbon Concrete Composites)

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16 pages, 5762 KB

Open AccessArticle

Corrosion Characteristics and Strength Degradation Mechanism of Metro Steel Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Materials Under the Low-Carbon Target

by Zhiqiang Yuan, Zhaojun Chen, Liming Yang, Bo Liu, Minghui Liu and Yurong Zhang

J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(9), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9090463 - 1 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1068

Abstract

In the context of sustainable development, improving the durability of engineering materials and the service life of engineering projects is an important path to address engineering sustainability and low-carbon development. This study addresses the durability issues of steel fiber-reinforced cementitious materials (SFRCMs) under the combined action of stray current and chloride ions in metro engineering. Through simulated stray current-accelerated corrosion tests, combined with compressive strength tests and X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) analysis, the effects of steel fiber volume content (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%) and electrification duration (0–72 h) on the mechanical properties and corrosion mechanisms were systematically investigated. The results indicate that steel fiber content significantly influences corrosion rate and strength degradation. Specimens with 1.5% fiber content exhibited the highest initial compressive strength (58.43 MPa), but suffered a severe strength loss rate of 37.67% after 72 h of electrification. In contrast, specimens with 1.0% fiber content demonstrated balanced performance, achieving both high initial strength and superior corrosion resistance (19.66% strength loss after 72 h). X-CT analysis revealed that corrosion products initially filled pores during early stages but later induced microcracks in the matrix. Higher fiber content specimens exhibited increased large-pore ratios due to fiber agglomeration, accelerating chloride ion penetration. Furthermore, digital volume correlation (DVC) analysis demonstrated that steel fibers effectively dispersed loads and reduced stress concentration. However, post-corrosion fiber volume loss weakened their crack resistance capacity, highlighting the critical role of fiber integrity in structural durability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Low-Carbon Concrete Composites)

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Review

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29 pages, 1828 KB

Open AccessReview

Life-Cycle Assessment and Sustainability of High-Performance and Ultra-High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (HPFRC/UHPFRC) from Mix Design to Structural Performance

by Hasan Mostafaei, Yasaman Anisi, Hadi Bahmani, Niyousha Fallah Chamasemani and Khosro Shabani

J. Compos. Sci. 2026, 10(6), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs10060308 - 5 Jun 2026

Viewed by 798

Abstract

High-performance and ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concretes (HPFRC/UHPFRC) have emerged as advanced cementitious composites capable of achieving superior mechanical performance, durability, and structural efficiency compared with conventional concrete. However, their widespread adoption remains challenged by relatively high material costs and significant embodied environmental impacts associated with elevated binder and fiber contents. This study presents a comprehensive life-cycle review of advanced high-performance cementitious composites, evaluating their sustainability from raw material extraction and mix design to structural application, service life, and end-of-life considerations. The review synthesizes current knowledge on material composition, production processes, structural performance, durability characteristics, and environmental impacts through the framework of life-cycle assessment (LCA). Particular attention is given to the influence of mix-design parameters, including binder composition, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), aggregate systems, and fiber type, on embodied carbon, energy demand, and mechanical performance. A dataset compiled from published experimental studies covering high-performance and ultra-high-performance concrete mixtures is analyzed to examine relationships between compressive strength, embodied energy, and carbon footprint, highlighting the dominant role of cementitious binders and fiber production in environmental impacts. Although advanced fiber-reinforced concretes generally exhibit higher cradle-to-gate emissions than conventional concrete, their superior mechanical properties, improved durability, reduced material demand, and extended service life can substantially reduce life-cycle environmental impacts at the structural level. The review further discusses emerging strategies for developing low-carbon high-performance cementitious composites, including clinker reduction, recycled and alternative fibers, optimized particle packing, and AI-assisted mix design. Finally, key research gaps are identified, particularly regarding standardized LCA methodologies, long-term durability data, harmonized performance-based functional units, and circular-economy strategies for material recycling and reuse. The findings highlight that performance-based life-cycle evaluation is essential for accurately assessing the sustainability potential of advanced high-performance cementitious composites in resilient and low-carbon infrastructure systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Low-Carbon Concrete Composites)

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32 pages, 6318 KB

Open AccessReview

Developing Coastal Resilience to Climate Change in Panama Through Sustainable Concrete Applications

by Kathleen J. Castillo-Martínez, Gisselle Guerra-Chanis and Yazmin L. Mack-Vergara

J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(11), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9110575 - 24 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3125

Abstract

Panama, with nearly 3000 km of coastline and half its population living in coastal zones, faces high vulnerability to sea level rise, flooding, and extreme events. The most vulnerable areas include low-lying coastal provinces such as Panama, Colón, and Chiriquí. This review explores the use of sustainable concrete to address the effects of climate change in Panama towards coastal resilience. The methodology combined a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer, a systematic literature review (2015–2025) of 99 sources including regulations and technical standards, and a socioeconomic SWOT analysis to assess adoption drivers and barriers. A 2050 permanent inundation map was examined to identify vulnerable areas, and an inventory of concrete-based protection structures was developed. The results highlight that concrete is already used in Panama for coastal resilience through structures such as breakwaters, dolos, and Xbloc units. However, as the country still needs to expand its coastal protection infrastructure, there is a crucial opportunity to implement lower-impact, sustainable concrete alternatives that minimize environmental burdens while ensuring long-term durability and performance. Sustainable options, including supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), recycled aggregates, and CO₂ injection technologies, demonstrate strong mitigation potential, with national initiatives such as Vertua, Greentec, and Argos pozzolan offering early pathways. The conclusions emphasize the need to expand sustainable concrete applications, integrate nature-based solutions, and strengthen Panama’s regulatory and technical capacity to achieve resilient, low-carbon coastal infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Low-Carbon Concrete Composites)

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