Accelerated carbonation of waste-modified cement pastes: material-specific responses and implications
Journal of Sustainable Cement-Based Materials, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/21650373.2026.2674144
- Journal Name: Journal of Sustainable Cement-Based Materials
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Applied Science & Technology Source, Chemical Abstracts Core, Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Keywords: Cement, CO2 curing, construction and demolition waste, standard curing
- Bursa Uludag University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study investigates construction and demolition waste powders—glass, ceramic, brick, and concrete—as partial cement replacements in pastes cured via conventional water and accelerated CO2 methods. Water curing yielded marginal or reduced strength due to clinker dilution, while CO2 curing significantly enhanced performance across all mixes. Glass powder achieved the highest gains under CO2 curing (41% at 7 days, 18% at 28 days), ceramic and brick powders also improved strength, and concrete powder reached 76 MPa at 10% replacement. Microstructural analysis confirmed portlandite consumption, calcium carbonate formation, and matrix densification. The study’s novelty lies in directly comparing multiple recycled powders under CO2 curing, revealing material-specific carbonation responses and optimal replacement levels. These findings establish CO2 curing of waste-infused cement pastes as a promising approach that may contribute to reduced carbon emissions and enhanced mechanical performance.