Advancing Toward Net Zero: The Role of Fibers in Sustainable Concrete Construction
摘要
This study investigates the integration of synthetic fibers—polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), alkali-resistant glass (AG), and polypropylene (PP) fibers—into concrete mixes from the perspective of the structural materials’ carbon footprint and progress toward net-zero construction. It scrutinizes these fibers’ production processes, usage, and end-of-life stages, evaluating their CO2 emissions and broader environmental impact within the sustainable construction framework. The study introduces a specific mix design where the fibers above are added at percentages of 0.25% and 0.50% to concrete, with analysis conducted on six beams for each type of fiber. The results demonstrate that while all fibers enhance concrete’s strength and durability, PP fibers exhibit the lowest CO2 emissions, making them the most environmentally advantageous option among the three. This chapter concludes with strategies to optimize synthetic fibers in concrete, advocating for energy-efficient manufacturing and recycled materials. This research enriches the discourse on sustainable construction materials, offering a detailed examination of synthetic fibers’ potential to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry.