The Improvement of Durability of Reinforced Concretes for Sustainable Structures: A Review on Different Approaches

The topic of sustainability of reinforced concrete structures is strictly related with their durability in aggressive environments. In particular, at equal environmental impact, the higher the durability of construction materials, the higher the sustainability. The present review deals with the possible strategies aimed at producing sustainable and durable reinforced concrete structures in different environments. It focuses on the design methodologies as well as the use of unconventional corrosion-resistant reinforcements, alternative binders to Portland cement, and innovative or traditional solutions for reinforced concrete protection and prevention against rebars corrosion such as corrosion inhibitors, coatings, self-healing techniques, and waterproofing aggregates. Analysis of the scientific literature highlights that there is no preferential way for the production of green concrete but that the sustainability of the building materials can only be achieved by implementing simultaneous multiple strategies aimed at reducing environmental impact and improving both durability and performances.

Automated summary

This paper discusses the strategies for producing sustainable and durable reinforced concrete structures in different environments, focusing on design methodologies, unconventional corrosion-resistant reinforcements, alternative binders, and various solutions for concrete protection and prevention against corrosion. Scientific literature analysis reveals that the sustainability of building materials can only be achieved through the implementation of multiple strategies aimed at reducing environmental impact, improving durability, and enhancing performance.