A Review of Current Trends in Advanced Materials for High-Performance Concrete Replacement Strategies
Author(s): Maria Antony Sebastin Vimalan P, Seethalakshmi T, Lavanya G
Publication #: 2604009
Date of Publication: 22.08.2026
Country: India
Pages: 1-4
Published In: Volume 12 Issue 4 August-2026
Abstract
High-performance concrete (HPC) and its ultra-high-performance variant (UHPC) deliver exceptional mechanical strength, durability, and longevity, yet their conventional formulations rely heavily on Portland cement and virgin aggregates, contributing significantly to CO₂ emissions and resource depletion. This review examines current trends (primarily 2024–2026) in advanced materials serving as partial or full replacements for cement, silica fume, fillers, and aggregates in HPC/UHPC. Emphasis is placed on sustainable alternatives that maintain or enhance performance while reducing embodied carbon. Key categories include solid wastes, natural minerals, alternative binders, nanomaterials, and cement-free systems. These materials improve microstructure through pozzolanic reactions, nucleation, filler effects, and internal curing, yielding up to 35% lower CO₂ per unit strength alongside gains in compressive strength (often >150 MPa in optimized UHPC) and durability. The novelty lies in a unified classification framework, synthesis of microstructure–performance–sustainability linkages, and a systematic literature-review methodology. Applications span critical infrastructure, repair, and resilient structures. Challenges such as workability, early-age strength, and supply variability are addressed, with future directions pointing toward AI-optimized blends and full circular-economy formulations. This work provides a roadmap for low-carbon, high-performance concrete adoption.
Keywords: High-performance concrete, UHPC, advanced replacement materials, nanomaterials, geopolymers, sustainable SCMs, low-carbon concrete, self-healing concrete.
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