Durable and frost resistant concrete

Purpose and goal:

The project will evaluate 2D nanotechnology developed to improve pavement concrete castings and to enable higher incorporation of recycled binders such as slag and fly ash into the concrete. The new technology has potential to inhibit crack formation and crack propagation, increase wear resistance and guarantee frost resistance. A few binder combinations will be evaluated with Portland cement as the reference binder. Evaluation by lab studies and full-scale field trials.

Expected results and effects:

The project hopes to demonstrate the positive effects the new additives have on concrete. Verified results from lab studies with regard to crack formation, crack propagation, wear resistance and frost resistance may open the way for higher inclusions of slag and fly ash in the concrete. This, in turn, can help the industry produce more durable concrete and lower its carbon footprint.

Approach and implementation:

The project plans to conduct lab evaluations at Luleå Tekniska Universitet during fall/winter 2023/2024 and prepare for field trials for summer 2024. After evaluation of the concrete is complete, the results will be communicated in a written report and by presentations in various industry forums.