Concrete

The cement used to make concrete carries quite a carbon footprint. Now, scientists at the University of Tokyo have created a cement-free alternative that directly bonds sand particles together using a reaction between alcohol and a catalyst.

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new process to convert old tires into graphene, which can then be used to make concrete. Not only is it more environmentally friendly, but the team says the resulting concrete is substantially stronger.

Researchers at Spain's Polytechnic University of Valencia have developed "Lego-like" segments of 3D-printed plastic that can be pieced together as a lightweight alternative to reinforced concrete beams.

Unfortunately concrete production is a major source of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Now engineers at Purdue University have developed a new cement recipe that can absorb CO2 twice as fast as usual, hopefully turning it into a useful carbon sink.

New research has continued to expand the possibilities in recycled concrete aggregates, with scientists coming up with a new manufacturing method that produces a concrete that is 35 precent stronger than traditional types.

By mimicking the curvy patterns found on lobster shells, scientists at Australia’s RMIT University have come up with 3D printing technique for concrete that affords it greater strength and could let taller and more complex structures be built.

Researchers have found that the concrete walls in a decommissioned power plant in Japan have not only kept their strength over the decades but have actually gotten stronger with use, thanks to a rare mineral also found in ancient Roman concrete.

Although we've been hearing about tech that allows for the production of stronger concrete, existing structures made of regular concrete could also use some help. That's where new strengthening panels combined with a new mortar are made to come in.

Scientists at University of California, Berkeley have leveraged 3D printing to produce a polymer lattice structure that can act as the backbone for low-carbon concrete that also boasts great strength and durability.

Scientists in Australia have developed a new cement-free solution they say is better equipped to handle the corrosive nature of sewerage systems, while also helping avoid the buildup of troublesome and costly fatbergs.

This isn’t a home that will appeal to everyone, with its use of rough, unfinished concrete, but fans of the harsh gray stuff will find an interesting dwelling with a pool on its roof and three outdoor patios that ensure sunlight permeates within.

While 3D printing technology does allow for the quicker and cheaper construction of buildings, such structures are typically made of concrete, which isn't very eco-friendly. Soon, though, it may be possible to print buildings out of local soil.