Recent Advances in the Chemistry of Sustainable Concrete Materials

Abstract

The cement sector is responsible for roughly 8% of global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, and as such, prompts urgent efforts to develop sustainable concrete alternatives (Habert et al., 2020). Recent developments in concrete materials’ chemistry seek to decrease their environmental impact while also keeping or enhancing performance. Novel materials, such as Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC³), have been reported to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 40% by replacing clinker with calcined clay and limestone (Scrivener et al., 2018). Moreover, inclusion of nano-silica has also improved the robustness, hydration level, and the longevity of cementitious composites leading to its better performance ability on highly demanding conditions (Nazari & Riahi, 2023). Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) breakthroughs include carbon-negative concrete that stores much more CO₂ than it emits during its manufacturing. This is accomplished by incorporating industrial waste as reactive fillers and applying internal & external CO₂ curing for an increase in strength and durability of up to 100% (Chen et al., 2025). Studies conducted at RMIT University also showed that biochar derived from waste coffee grounds can substitute up to 15% of sand in concrete, achieving an enhanced strength of up to 30% while sequestering carbon (Hashash et al., 2024).These improvements are indicative of transitioning towards more sustainable, circular, and resilient construction. Material science and chemistry can help the concrete industry curb its global carbon emissions or reduce them substantially.