Advances in concrete technology

The basics of concrete, its composition and the potential role of its constituent materials, with specific reference to the potential role of chemical admixtures in concrete, are briefly explained. This is followed by a brief description of some of the recent advances in the manufacture and use of concrete as structural material, namely geopolymer concrete, recycled aggregate concrete, fibre-reinforced concrete, nano-concrete, lightweight aggregate and heavyweight aggregate concretes. Looking ahead, the concept of smart concrete is introduced, and different types of concrete products are explored, such as self-compacting, curing, cleaning, healing, heating and sensing concrete. The chapter then discusses 3D-printed concrete, followed by the concept of designing concrete by performance, not commonly accepted in practice but which potentially offers a more sustainable concrete construction.