Used concrete can last up to 100 years in new construction: Study

A new study by researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Tampere University reveals that used concrete from dismantled buildings can be safely reused in new construction for up to 50 to 100 years. Traditionally, concrete slabs are crushed and repurposed as road rubble, but this research demonstrates that with proper assessment and treatment, structural concrete elements retain their strength and durability. The team developed a performance-based framework using extensive data and computer simulations to predict the lifespan of “middle-aged” concrete, accounting for factors like carbonation and corrosion—two main threats that degrade concrete over time, especially when exposure conditions change. The study highlights carbonation as a critical risk, particularly when concrete moves from dry indoor environments to wetter outdoor settings, which accelerates corrosion of steel reinforcement. However, the researchers found that applying silicone-based or water-repellent coatings can reduce corrosion rates by up to 70%, significantly extending the lifespan of reused concrete components. This approach not only enhances structural safety but also supports environmental sustainability by reducing