Self-Heating Concrete: A Breakthrough for Safer, More Sustainable Roads
Researchers at Drexel University have developed an innovative self-heating concrete designed to keep streets safe from ice and snow without relying on traditional road salt. The project, led by Amir Farnam, aims to address the environmental and cost concerns associated with salt use while providing a more sustainable alternative.
The self-heating concrete works using phase-change materials like paraffin wax, which liquefy in warm conditions and solidify in cold temperatures, releasing heat. Farnam’s team experimented with two methods: one uses paraffin capsules in the mix for quick snow melting, while the other incorporates paraffin-infused pebbles that release heat over a longer period.
Although it won’t replace snowplows or salt entirely, the technology has shown promise in reducing salt usage by up to 50%, which could extend the lifespan of roads and reduce maintenance costs. With real-world testing in Philadelphia between 2021 and 2024 showing effectiveness over 50% of the time during snowy conditions, self-heating concrete could become a valuable tool for future road infrastructure.
Full story: https://www.inquirer.com/health/self-heating-concrete-drexel-scientists-research-20250119.html
Vegetable Fibers in Concrete: A Greener, Stronger Future for Construction
Researchers are exploring the use of vegetable fibers (VFs) in cement-based materials to create stronger, more sustainable concrete. These fibers, which include wood fibers (like pine and eucalyptus) and non-wood fibers (such as hemp, jute, and coconut coir), offer significant benefits, including improved flexural strength, fracture toughness, and energy absorption. For instance, coconut fiber-reinforced concrete is more flexible and can even outperform glass and carbon fiber reinforcements.
The main challenge is ensuring durability, as natural fibers can degrade in cement’s alkaline environment. To address this, researchers are experimenting with fiber treatments and modifying the cement matrix to improve longevity and bonding.
In addition to enhancing structural strength, vegetable fibers are being used for innovative applications like hemp-lime concrete for soundproofing and sustainable materials like açai and Himalayan nettle for nonwoven acoustic panels. These fibers are cost-effective and sustainable, making them a promising solution for greener construction.
As research continues, vegetable fibers could become essential in creating construction materials that are not only stronger but also more environmentally friendly.
Full story: https://www.azobuild.com/news.aspx?newsID=23693
ACI Releases 2025 Edition of Building Code for Structural Concrete
The American Concrete Institute (ACI) has released the 2025 edition of its flagship document, ACI CODE-318-25: Building Code for Structural Concrete – Code Requirements and Commentary. This updated edition, now available to ACI 318 PLUS subscribers, includes significant updates such as a new sustainability appendix, revised post-installed reinforcing bar requirements, and enhanced shear friction provisions. The document also introduces advancements in seismic design, a performance-based wind design appendix, and updated guidelines for reinforcement development, anchorage, and breakout failure.
ACI CODE-318-25 remains a comprehensive and indispensable resource for professionals in the concrete industry, offering clear requirements for structural concrete materials, design, and detailing. The document will be available in multiple languages and units of measure to serve a global audience. ACI 318 PLUS subscribers will automatically gain access to this new edition, along with interactive digital tools, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest in concrete design.
Optical Fiber Light-Transmitting Concrete: A Sustainable Innovation for the Future
Optical fiber light-transmitting concrete (LTC) is gaining attention for its unique ability to channel light through concrete, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. By incorporating optical fibers made from glass or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), LTC provides both visual impact and energy-efficient benefits. PMMA is often preferred due to its affordability and durability, though researchers suggest using alumina sulfate cement to prevent fiber degradation from the high alkalinity of traditional cement.
LTC offers improved mechanical properties, such as enhanced flexibility and bending strength, but its increased porosity makes it more water-absorbent. While the cost of optical fibers and labor-intensive installation remains a barrier, the energy-saving potential is significant—studies show LTC can reduce artificial lighting needs by 16% and lower heating and cooling costs by up to 18%.
With applications ranging from decorative panels to potential use in infrastructure projects, LTC is on the path to becoming a versatile and sustainable material. As research addresses challenges like cost and durability, LTC may become a key player in green construction.
Full story: https://www.azobuild.com/news.aspx?newsID=23688
Innovative Living Concrete: A Nature-Inspired Approach to Sustainable Construction
Wil Srubar, a structural engineer at the University of Colorado Boulder, is leading a groundbreaking project to create a fossil-fuel-free alternative to traditional concrete. In his Living Materials Laboratory, Srubar and his interdisciplinary team are developing “living concrete,” a material inspired by nature. Unlike conventional concrete, which is produced by heating limestone and releasing carbon dioxide, Srubar’s bioblocks rely on microorganisms, specifically algae, to produce calcium carbonate—a natural biocement.
These bioblocks meet performance standards set by ASTM International for use in structural applications and offer a more sustainable solution by sequestering carbon. Srubar’s vision includes widespread adoption of living concrete in urban construction, alongside other natural, regenerative materials. His start-up, Prometheus Materials, is already producing bioblocks in Colorado, and they have been installed in buildings in Chicago and Seattle.
Beyond living concrete, Srubar’s lab is also developing carbon-negative cement and polymers to improve concrete’s resistance to freeze-thaw damage. His work aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, especially those from underrepresented groups, to innovate in sustainable construction.
Srubar’s ambitious goal is to integrate living materials into the built environment, creating carbon-neutral, regenerative cities.
Full story: https://cen.acs.org/materials/Wil-Srubars-lab-full-living/103/i3
Let me know what you think of these hot topics and any others you have come across!
Also, don’t forget to subscribe to stay up to date with the latest concrete information.
Alen Keri 
Leave a comment