Estudo da trabalhabilidade e resistência a compressão de pastas de baixo carbono

Abstract

This study is part of the research line “Technology, Processes, Components, and Construction Materials,” within the area of concentration in Civil Construction, and aims to investigate the workability, flowability, and compressive strength of low-carbon cement pastes, focusing on the analysis of their physical behavior. The production of Portland cement requires high thermal energy consumption, which results in significant emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs), especially carbon dioxide (CO2). It is estimated that the cement industry is responsible for approximately 5% of global GHG emissions. To mitigate these impacts, one of the strategies involves reducing the clinker content—identified as the main source of CO2 emissions—by incorporating alternative materials. Among these, pozzolanic materials stand out due to their physical and chemical properties, which can positively influence mechanical strength, workability, and rheology of the pastes. Based on theoretical reviews and practical testing, this study aims to develop a low-carbon cement that preserves its physical properties while reducing reliance on clinker in the production process. Specifically, the objectives of this work are to validate the capacity of workability studies in cement pastes to identify potential reference compositions for low-carbon paste production; to evaluate the effects of clinker replacement with pozzolanic materials in terms of workability, flowability, and compressive strength; and, finally, to characterize and briefly analyze the physical properties of the formulated pastes.