An overview of cementitious construction materials

Abstract This chapter aims to provide an overview of different types of new materials used in construction engineering. However, the candidate materials and/or their composites/derivatives considered in this chapter are cementitious in nature. Other virgin materials such as bricks, different mud/clay forms, timber/wood, and steel are not considered. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce different civil engineering materials that have potential to be employed considering the various engineering attributes such as durability, sustainability, enhanced performance, reduction of use of natural resources, and low embodied energy and the way forward. The reader is introduced to the new materials and no attempt is made to provide a treatise on each one. The concepts introduced also give insight into the challenges and scope for innovation that exist. The extraction, production, transportation, utilization, and recycling of construction materials have impacts on the environment, sustainability, and built environment. An overview of several different materials available for construction is provided. Also, mention is made of recent and relevant technologies or processing methods with reference to their suitability. This chapter examines features of the materials that show promise from the point of view of sustainability concerns. Some of the attributes such as strength, ductility, fracture toughness, fatigue resistance, durability, and resistance to abrasion and corrosion, and service life are also reported.