Improved production methods for climate-improved concrete

How can the climate impact of concrete be reduced without compromising durability, safety and production efficiency? In this project, RISE develops and verifies improved production methods for climate concrete that enable sustainable and robust infrastructure even under demanding conditions.

The project is aimed at contractors, clients, concrete producers and material suppliers who want to introduce climate-smart production processes with high technical reliability. The focus is on how production processes – such as temperature, moisture, curing and choice of additives – affect durability and long-term function in real construction environments.

Together with industry players, we develop and test several concrete production methods, including:

• Delayed form removal
• heated molds
• accelerating chemical additives
• surface treatments adapted for winter and cold climates

By combining laboratory testing with field testing in a full-scale plant environment, verified methods and models are developed that link production conditions to critical durability properties such as corrosion resistance, carbonation, chloride penetration and frost resistance. This enables functional requirements and supports the implementation of the ERC concept, which provides greater flexibility in material selection and a lower climate footprint.

The project is carried out in close cooperation with current industrial partners in infrastructure construction, and the results are produced to be used directly in practical projects and procurements. For new customers, the project offers access to practical knowledge, verified methods and decision support that facilitate the introduction of climate-improved concrete in today's and tomorrow's infrastructure.

Keywords: low-carbon concrete, production processes, durability, functional requirements, infrastructure