Eco-mechanical performances of cement-based materials: An application to self-consolidating concrete

The environmental performances of concrete structures have been largely investigated in the last years. However, mechanical behavior and ecological aspects are not always combined in these analyses. Thus, two low-carbon footprint self-consolidating concretes have been subjected to uniaxial compression loads, in order to measure the strength and the dissipated energy during failure. Starting from these tests, new eco-mechanical ratios are herein introduced with the aim of tailoring eco-friendly concrete with acceptable mechanical performances. As a result, the best structural and environmental performances can be achieved not only by replacing cement with mineral admixtures, but also adding steel fibers. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.