From durability to circularity: ensuring service life and enabling reuse of concrete in circular construction
From durability to circularity: ensuring service life and enabling reuse of concrete in circular construction
Concrete from old buildings can often be reused instead of being demolished, reducing waste and cutting carbon emissions. The challenge is proving that reused concrete will remain safe and durable for decades.
This study presents a new method for estimating how long reused concrete can last, through probabilistic prediction of service life (covering both carbonation and corrosion stages). Using Monte Carlo simulations and case studies of Nordic precast concrete buildings, the research shows that reused concrete elements can achieve service lives similar to new ones when properly assessed and repaired.
The framework supports smarter decisions on reuse, helping make construction more circular, resource-efficient and sustainable.