A review on alternative binders, admixtures and water for the production of sustainable concrete

To keep its leading role, the concrete industry must face the environmental issues linked to the manufacturing, by increasing the energy efficiency and adopting alternative fuels or raw materials. The present work analyses physical, mechanical, and environmental performances of concrete products incorporating waste from four main sources (construction and demolition waste, residues from waste treatment, metallurgical industry by-products and other sources), as substitutes of one of the three main components of concrete (binder, admixtures and water). The binder is the easiest component to be replaced in terms of number of alternatives, with the highest impact on concrete properties, while water easily reaches a full replacement level. Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) showed the highest potential for the overall performance, with positive effects on compressive strength, durability, and workability of concrete samples, along with electric arc furnace dust (EAFD) and ceramic powder.