Abstract

Civil infrastructure assets, such as buildings, bridges, tunnels, roads, and dams, are vital to societal well-being and economic development. Achieving Net Zero by 2050 remains a major challenge for the construction industry that is expected to deliver cost-effective, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure within a circular economy framework. This talk introduces a new type of low-carbon concrete recently developed at UCL , following a materials–microstructure–property–performance approach. The material combines a cement-free geopolymer, produced from industrial by-products, with recycled fibres to enhance sustainability and performance. When paired with lightweight fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) bars, it forms a novel reinforced concrete system that offers a viable alternative to conventional concrete. This innovation promises to extend infrastructure lifespan while reducing carbon emissions, as well as repair and maintenance costs, providing significant environmental and economic benefits.