New concrete without cement can bend under load without breaking into pieces

Researchers have introduced a new type of concrete that cracks but does not crumble when stretched or bent.

In the modern world, concrete is the mostcommon building material and the second largest substance after water. Therefore, its properties and quality are very important for buildings, bridges, tunnels and other infrastructure facilities.

A team of scientists from Swinburne University of Technology has developed a new type of concrete that includes industrial waste such as ash from coal-fired power plants, as well as small polymer fibers. Thanks to these inclusions, it does not collapse and does not break into pieces when cracks from deformation occur.

In fact, it can bend when a force is applied to it, so the structures built from it can remain intact after earthquakes, hurricanes, or even explosions and shells.

36% less energy is consumed in its production and 76% less carbon dioxide is released compared to conventional flexible concrete made of cement.

Recently, we also reported on the invention of an additive for concrete, which allows it to be poured at temperatures below zero without loss of quality.