The focus of the present research is the "Foldcast" project of the Accademia di Architettura of the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI). "Foldcast" pursues the goal of being able to produce structurally optimised concrete components. A thin paper of 0.7 mm thickness serves as material-saving formwork. However, this type of formwork would be damaged by mechanical concrete compaction and consequently, it can only be used in combination with self-compacting concrete (SCC). Due to its special flow properties, SCC requires a higher cement paste content compared to concrete of conventional workability and therefore tends to also have a higher cement content. This contradicts the sustainable project goals of "Foldcast". The aim of the present research is to develop a self-compacting concrete that is as sustainable as possible, which is achieved by conserving natural gravel resources through the use of recycled concrete aggregates and reducing CO2 emissions by reducing cement contents. Four of the tested concrete mix compositions can be recommended for use with "Foldcast", based on adequate workability and sufficient strength. Depending on the mix design, the greenhouse gas emissions of the material can be reduced by up to 23%.
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Alexandra Horat, Institute for Building Technology and Environment, OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Rapperswil, Switzerland Fabio Amicarelli, Academy of Architecture, Università della Svizzera italiana, Mendrisio, Switzerland Ena Lloret-Fritschi, Academy of Architecture, Università della Svizzera italiana, Mendrisio, Switzerland Christian Paglia, Institute of Materials and Constructions, SUPSI – University of Applied Sciences and Arts Southern Switzerland, Mendrisio, Switzerland Prof. Simone Stürwald, Institute for Building Technology and Environment, OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Rapperswil, Switzerland