Environmental Assessment of Carbon Reinforced Concrete Recycling Options

Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/ReportConference contributionContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

The concrete and cement industry is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, calling for solutions to minimize this impact. Research shows, that Carbon Reinforced Concrete (CRC) may be a part of the solution, as its production has lower carbon emissions. It is also more resource friendly than Steel Reinforced Concrete, saving up to 80% of concrete. However, there is little research on the End-of-Life (EoL) environmental performance of CRC and the re-utilization of its resources. In the context of the research project CRC/TRR280, we evaluate the environmental performance of diverse recycling options for CRC with varying degrees of manufacturing readiness, as well as downcycling effects. We map EoL technology paths, including demolition, transport, Carbon Fiber recovery, recycled concrete applications and recycled Carbon Fiber applications. Second, we model these scenarios in an LCA, reporting Global Warming Potential (GWP), as well as assessing Manufacturing Readiness Levels (MRL) for all processes. This allows decision-makers to quickly identify current hotspots within the CRC recycling path to achieving carbon neutrality.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings for the 6th fib International Congress, 2022- Concrete Innovation for Sustainability
EditorsStine Stokkeland, Henny Cathrine Braarud
Publisherfib. The International Federation for Structural Concrete
Pages891-900
Number of pages10
ISBN (print)9782940643158
Publication statusPublished - 2022
Peer-reviewedYes

Publication series

Seriesfib Symposium
ISSN2617-4820

Conference

Title6th fib International Congress
SubtitleConcrete Innovation for Sustainability
Abbreviated titlefib 2022
Conference number6
Duration12 - 16 June 2022
Degree of recognitionInternational event
LocationClarion Hotel The Hub
CityOslo
CountryNorway

External IDs

ORCID /0000-0003-4957-9116/work/142248534
ORCID /0000-0003-3139-6178/work/142253143
Scopus 85143903349