Carbon fibre textile reinforced lightweight concrete with green binder and recycled aggregates

Important results from the project

The project aims to test a new idea for carbon fiber reinforced lightweight concrete with green binder and recycled aggregate to replace current heavy steel reinforced concrete. The overall goal is to develop a lightweight construction system with a reduced amount of cement and natural aggregate without problems with reinforcement corrosion. The results show that carbon fiber can be used as reinforcement in lightweight concrete with acceptable ductivity. Compared to normal concrete, the lightweight concrete we developed can reduce weight by 41% and reduce GWP also by 41%.

Expected long term effects

Compared to normal concrete, carbon fiber reinforced lightweight concrete can reduce both weight and GWP by 41%. Lightweight has many advantages from the viewpoint of construction. The most potential applications may include roof slabs, swimming pools and pontoons. With the developed technology, the construction as well as recycling industry can benefit. SMEs that process recycling materials (e.g. recycled aggregate) and supply air admixtures and technology, as well as new SMEs investing in nano-impregnation technology for carbon fiber reinforcements will benefit.

Approach and implementation

This study has been carried out through collaboration between three partners: Chalmers as problem solver, NCC and SBS as need owners. Chalmers has developed carbon fiber reinforcements and together with SBS produced various carbon fiber reinforced lightweight concrete beams with different binders and recycled aggregate. NCC has identified various possible industrial applications of carbon fiber reinforced lightweight concrete. During the project, we have already received many preliminary inquiries from various companies. Therefore, we plan to apply for a new FoI project.