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Sustainability
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Advancements in Sustainable Materials, Structural Analysis, and Concrete Durability
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Advancements in Sustainable Materials, Structural Analysis, and Concrete Durability

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Materials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2025) | Viewed by 3900

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Salim Barbhuiya

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Civil Engineering, Curtin University Australia, Perth, Australia
Interests: concrete
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Das

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, India
Interests: material characterization; sustainable green buildings; construction planning and scheduling; quality in construction

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This special issue delves into the forefront of sustainable materials, structural analysis, and concrete durability within the realm of construction engineering. By aggregating research articles, reviews, and case studies, it seeks to illuminate the latest innovations in materials science and structural engineering techniques. At its core, the issue explores the integration of sustainable practices and cutting-edge methodologies to bolster the longevity and resilience of infrastructure projects.

Within its pages, readers will encounter a diverse array of topics, ranging from the utilization of recycled aggregates and bio-based materials to the development of self-healing concrete. These materials represent a departure from traditional construction materials, offering the promise of reduced environmental impact and enhanced performance characteristics. Furthermore, the issue delves into novel structural analysis methods, including finite element analysis, computational modelling, and non-destructive testing, to provide insights into the behaviour and performance of complex structures under various loading conditions.

One of the primary objectives of this special issue is to disseminate the latest research findings, methodologies, and practical solutions in sustainable construction materials and structural engineering. By doing so, it aims to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable infrastructure development. Through a combination of theoretical insights and empirical evidence, the issue endeavours to inform decision-making processes among engineers, architects, and policymakers. Moreover, the special issue serves as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging the gap between materials science, civil engineering, environmental science, and sustainability studies. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, it seeks to address complex issues such as climate change mitigation, resource depletion, and urban resilience. Through comparative analyses and case studies, the issue offers valuable insights into the performance and feasibility of different materials and techniques, empowering stakeholders to make informed choices. Ultimately, the special issue contributes to the existing literature by providing updated insights into the latest advancements, addressing emerging challenges and opportunities, and proposing innovative solutions and design approaches. By promoting sustainable practices, resilience, and longevity in infrastructure development, it aligns with global efforts towards achieving sustainable development goals. As a comprehensive resource for researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders, the special issue plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable construction and engineering.

Dr. Salim Barbhuiya
Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Das
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 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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. Sustainability 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 2400 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 materials
  • structural analysis
  • concrete durability
  • construction engineering
  • infrastructure resilience

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

Published Papers (3 papers)

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Research

23 pages, 5352 KiB  
Article
Durability Performance of Alkali-Activated Natural Pozzolan and Limestone Powder Mortar in Sulfate Environments
by Adeshina Adewale Adewumi, Babatunde Abiodun Salami, Mohd Azreen Bin Mohd Ariffin, Moruf Olalekan Yusuf, Khaled A. Alawi Al-Sodani and Mohammed Ibrahim
Sustainability 2025, 17(12), 5611; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17125611 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 325
Abstract
The pressing need for sustainable construction materials has identified alkali-activated materials (AAMs) as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional Portland cement. This study explores the synergistic performance of alkaline-activated natural pozzolan and limestone powder (AANL) blends against sulfate attack, evaluating mortar specimens immersed in sodium [...] Read more.
The pressing need for sustainable construction materials has identified alkali-activated materials (AAMs) as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional Portland cement. This study explores the synergistic performance of alkaline-activated natural pozzolan and limestone powder (AANL) blends against sulfate attack, evaluating mortar specimens immersed in sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, and a combined sulfate solution over 12 months. The samples were synthesized using natural pozzolan (NP) and limestone powder (LSP) in three distinct binder combinations to evaluate the influence of varying precursor ratios on the material’s performance, as follows: NP: LSP = 40:60 (AN40L60), 50:50 (AN50L50), and 60:40 (AN60L40). At the same time, the alkaline activators of 10 M NaOH(aq) and Na₂SiO3(aq) were combined in a ratio of 1:1 and cured at 75 °C. The research examines the weight variations of the samples, their residual compressive strength, and microstructural characteristics under exposure to magnesium sulfate, sodium sulfate, and a combined sulfate solution. In terms of weight change, samples exposed to Na2SO4 gained weight slightly, with AN40L60 recording the highest gain (3.2%) due to the ingress of sulfate ions and pore filling. Under MgSO4, AN60L40 had the lowest weight gain (29%), while AN40L60 reached 54%. In mixed sulfate, AN60L40 showed negligible weight gain (0.11%); whereas, AN50L50 and AN40L60 gained 2.43% and 1.81%, respectively. Compressive strength retention after one year indicated that mixes with higher NP content fared better. AN60L40 exhibited the highest residual strength across all solutions—16.12 MPa in Na2SO4, 12.5 MPa in MgSO4, and 19.45 MPa in the mixed solution. Conversely, AN40L60 showed the highest strength degradation, losing 47.22%, 58.11%, and 55.89%, respectively. SEM-EDS and FTIR analyses confirm that LSP’s vulnerability to sulfate attack diminishes with increased NP incorporation, highlighting a synergistic interaction that mitigates degradation and retains structural integrity. The combination of 60% NP and 40% LSP demonstrated superior resistance to all sulfate environments, as evidenced by visual durability, minimized weight gain, and retained compressive strength. This study highlights the potential of tailored NP-LSP combinations in developing durable and sustainable AAMs, paving the way for innovative solutions in sulfate-prone environments, while reducing environmental impact and promoting economic efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Sustainable Materials, Structural Analysis, and Concrete Durability)
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36 pages, 60184 KiB  
Article
Poly-Methyl-Methacrylate Rods in Light-Transmitting Concrete: A Critical Investigation into Sustainable Implementation
by Adithya Shenoy, Gopinatha Nayak, Adithya Tantri, Kiran K. Shetty, Jasmin Anna Maxwell, B. H. Venkataram Pai and Laxman P. Kudva
Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8033; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188033 - 13 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1449
Abstract
The development of special concrete focussed on sustainability and energy conservation has been approached through the use of recycled materials, novel techniques and processes, and materials that harness natural energy. This paper presents the results of one such study on the development of [...] Read more.
The development of special concrete focussed on sustainability and energy conservation has been approached through the use of recycled materials, novel techniques and processes, and materials that harness natural energy. This paper presents the results of one such study on the development of light-transmitting concrete using a novel polymeric transmitting media, poly-methyl-methacrylate, and a detailed analysis of the results obtained. Four variants based on the diameter and number of rods have been studied, with 5 and 10 mm diameter rods incorporated into 100 mm cube samples. A positive correlation between the area of rods and transmittance has been established; however, a loss in compressive and flexural strength was observed. Seasonal and monthly variation results indicate higher transmittance in summer, with the highest transmittance being observed in the month of May and the monsoon having the lowest transmittance, specifically in the month of July. The results of a case study of the application of the material have also been presented. The cost of construction has been studied, and the prediction of electricity consumption during operations has been carried out. The results have indicated the feasibility of use, even with the high initial cost. Variants have been shown to return the investments in a period of 7–31 years. Additionally, three of the four variants showed a sharp decrease in total CO2 emissions by eliminating the need for energy for daylighting and eliminating the consumption of electricity throughout the service life. Variants have been shown to return the investments in a period of 7–31 years. Additionally, three of the four variants show a sharp decrease in total CO2 emissions by eliminating the need for energy for daylighting and eliminating the consumption of electricity throughout the service life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Sustainable Materials, Structural Analysis, and Concrete Durability)
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21 pages, 18165 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Mechanical, Ecological, Economical, and Thermal Characteristics of Geopolymer Concrete Containing Processed Slag Sand
by Girish M. G., Kiran K. Shetty, Gopinatha Nayak and Kiran Kamath
Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7402; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177402 - 28 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1461
Abstract
This manuscript highlights the mechanical, economical, ecological, and thermal investigations performed on paving quality geopolymer concrete (PQGC) incorporating processed steel slag (PSS) as a substitute for river sand (RSa). The replacement of RSa with PSS ranged from 0 to 100% in the PQGC [...] Read more.
This manuscript highlights the mechanical, economical, ecological, and thermal investigations performed on paving quality geopolymer concrete (PQGC) incorporating processed steel slag (PSS) as a substitute for river sand (RSa). The replacement of RSa with PSS ranged from 0 to 100% in the PQGC mix. The mix with 100% PSS content exhibited enhanced geopolymerization, resulting in a denser and more amorphous matrix. This improved the mechanical properties, increasing compressive strength by 10.9%, flexural strength by 23.5%, and splitting tensile strength by 8.3%. The replacement of RSa with PSS in PQGC led to a marginal reduction in (embodied energy) EE and CO2 emissions. However, compared to conventional Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) and Fly Ash PQC (FPQC), the reduction in EE for PQGC was 44% and 34%, while the CO2 emissions of PQGC were reduced by 1.22 and 1.49 times. Despite these benefits, PQGC with 100% PSS was 19% and 30% more expensive than PQC and FPQC, respectively. The Global Warming Potential (GWP) of PQGC was approximately one-third that of PQC and FPQC at all levels of replacement of RSa in PQGC when compared to PQC and FPQC. Additionally, thermal conductivity decreased from k = 0.67 W/m °C to k = 0.51 W/m °C with 100% replacement of RSa, keeping the concrete cooler. Therefore, PQGC with 100% PSS, when practically implemented, may help reduce surrounding temperatures. This study concludes that PSS is a feasible and reliable alternative to RSa, enhancing the sustainability of PQGC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Sustainable Materials, Structural Analysis, and Concrete Durability)
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