International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 10 | Oct 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
CARBON FOOTPRINT REDUCTION VIA MICRO SILICA REPLACING CEMENT, ASSESSING ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS AND TRADE-OFFS. REENA P1 , MOHANAPRIYA V 2 Assistant Professor/Civil, JKKMCT , T.N Palayam. Erode ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------***--------------------------------------------------------------------------------ABSTRACT : Cement production contributes nearly 8% of global anthropogenic CO₂ emissions, making it a significant driver of climate change. Incorporating microsilica (silica fume) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) presents an effective strategy to develop sustainable, low-carbon, and high-performance concrete. This study explores the mechanical and environmental performance of concrete in which cement was partially replaced with microsilica at 5%, 10%, and 15% proportions. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was carried out following ISO 14040/44 standards to evaluate embodied carbon, energy consumption, and associated environmental trade-offs. Experimental investigations included compressive, split tensile, and flexural strength tests, along with durability assessments such as rapid chloride permeability and sulphate resistance tests. The findings revealed that a 10% microsilica replacement level achieved optimal performance, resulting in a 20–25% reduction in CO₂ emissions and an approximate 15% improvement in compressive strength compared to conventional concrete. Additionally, microsilica-enhanced mixes demonstrated superior resistance to chloride ion penetration and sulphate attack, indicating enhanced durability. However, environmental benefits depend on efficient sourcing and transportation management of microsilica, as these factors influence overall embodied emissions. The study concludes that partial cement replacement with microsilica is a practical and environmentally sustainable approach to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction sector while simultaneously improving structural performance and durability. Thus, microsilica-modified concrete can play a pivotal role in achieving global sustainability targets for green construction materials and carbon-neutral infrastructure.
Keywords : Microsilica, Silica Fume, Carbon Footprint, Supplementary Cementitious Material, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Sustainable Concrete, Cement
Replacement, Environmental Trade-off, Durability, CO₂ Emission Reduction
1. INTRODUCTION The demand for cement continues to rise with global infrastructure development, leading to significant environmental impacts. The production of one tonne of cement emits approximately 0.8–0.9 tonnes of CO₂ due to calcination and hightemperature kiln operations. In this context, utilizing industrial by-products such as microsilica (silica fume) as a partial cement replacement has emerged as an effective strategy to reduce both environmental impact and improve concrete performance.Microsilica is a by-product of the ferro-silicon industry, rich in amorphous SiO₂, and highly pozzolanic in nature. Its ultra-fine particle size enhances packing density, reduces permeability, and improves long-term strength and durability. However, while microsilica is recognized for its mechanical benefits, its environmental trade-offs—such as the energy required for collection, processing, and transportation—are less studied. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate the carbon footprint reduction potential of microsilica-blended concrete while assessing the associated environmental and performance trade-offs through a life-cycle-based approach. 2. OBJECTIVES
To quantify the reduction in carbon footprint achieved through partial cement replacement with microsilica. To analyze the mechanical and durability performance of microsilica-based concrete mixes. To perform a comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of normal and microsilica concrete. To evaluate trade-offs between environmental benefits, cost, and performan
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