Eco-Design of Sustainable Concrete Using Treated Industrial Wastewater and Bio-Based Admixtures
Mariam Iyabo ADEOBA, Thanyani PANDELANI, Harry NGANGWA, Tracy MASEBE
Abstract. The construction industry faces pressing challenges related to concrete demand, freshwater scarcity, and environmental sustainability. This thematic review focuses on eco-innovative practices in sustainable concrete design, particularly the use of treated industrial wastewater (TIWW) and bio-based admixtures as alternatives to conventional materials. By analyzing some literature from 2020 to 2025, we consolidate information that investigates the function of bio-derived admixtures, including polysaccharides and lignin-based chemicals, in improving rheological properties, durability, and microstructural refinement. The review emphasizes how eco-friendly inputs can sustain or enhance mechanical strength while decreasing permeability and water absorption. These developments facilitate the creation of low-carbon, resource-efficient concrete compositions, consistent with circular economy concepts and environmental stewardship. The paper concludes by identifying research gaps and proposing future directions for scaling sustainable concrete technologies within industrial and infrastructure applications.
Keywords
Bio-Based Admixtures, Eco-Design, Sustainable Concrete, Wastewater Reuse, Green Building Materials
Published online 4/2/2026, 10 pages
Copyright © 2026 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Mariam Iyabo ADEOBA, Thanyani PANDELANI, Harry NGANGWA, Tracy MASEBE, Eco-Design of Sustainable Concrete Using Treated Industrial Wastewater and Bio-Based Admixtures, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 63, pp 122-131, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644904053-14
The article was published as article 14 of the book Advances in Cement and Concrete Research
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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