Topic Editors

Dr. Youtian Wang
Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Hainan University, Haikou, China
Department of Civil Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
Dr. Ping Zhang
Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
Dr. Yifan Zhou
School of Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
Dr. Bowen Chen
School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
Dr. Qingfeng Xu
Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK

Innovations in Sustainable Building Materials and Structural Design for Net-Zero Carbon Emissions

Abstract submission deadline
30 October 2026
Manuscript submission deadline
30 December 2026
Viewed by
1053

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The topic “Innovations in Sustainable Building Materials and Structural Design for Net-Zero Carbon Emissions” aims to highlight advancements in sustainable materials and structural innovations that contribute to achieving net-zero carbon emissions in the built environment.

As the construction industry strives to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation, sustainable solutions have become paramount. This topic encourages researchers to explore novel approaches to reducing the carbon footprint of construction through advanced materials, innovative structural designs, and cutting-edge technologies.

Contributions may focus on sustainable building materials such as recycled steels, aerated concrete, reclaimed wood, etc., as well as structural optimization techniques that enhance performance while minimizing material usage. Additionally, research incorporating digital design tools, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and intelligent sensing for energy-efficient and resilient structures is encouraged.

This topic invites original research and reviews themes such as carbon-neutral construction practices, lifecycle assessments of structures and materials, adaptive building designs, and the integration of renewable energy systems, promoting a sustainable future for the construction industry.

Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

  • Sustainable and low-carbon building materials;
  • Advanced structural design and optimization;
  • Structural health monitoring;
  • Lifecycle assessment and carbon footprint analysis;
  • Digital and AI-driven construction technologies;
  • Renewable energy integration in building systems.

Kind regards,

Dr. Youtian Wang
Prof. Dr. Boshan Chen
Dr. Peng Dai
Dr. Ping Zhang
Dr. Yifan Zhou
Dr. Bowen Chen
Dr. Qingfeng Xu
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • construction materials
  • structural optimization
  • net-zero carbon emissions
  • recycled steels
  • aerated concrete
  • reclaimed wood
  • 3D printing
  • intelligent sensing
  • renewable energy systems

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Applied Sciences
applsci
2.5 5.5 2011 19.8 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Buildings
buildings
3.1 4.4 2011 14.9 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Construction Materials
constrmater
- 3.1 2021 18.6 Days CHF 1200 Submit
Materials
materials
3.2 6.4 2008 15.2 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Sustainability
sustainability
3.3 7.7 2009 19.3 Days CHF 2400 Submit

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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32 pages, 9996 KB  
Article
Innovative Composite Aggregates from Thermoplastic Waste for Circular Economy Mortars
by Abdelhak Badache, Noureddine Latroch, Mostefa Hacini, Ahmed Soufiane Benosman, Mohamed Mouli, Yassine Senhadji and Walid Maherzi
Constr. Mater. 2025, 5(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/constrmater5030058 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 359
Abstract
This study investigates sustainable mortars using lightweight synthetic sand (LSS), made from dune sand and recycled PET bottles, to replace natural sand (0–100% by volume). This aligns with circular economy principles by valorizing plastic waste into a construction aggregate. LSS is produced via [...] Read more.
This study investigates sustainable mortars using lightweight synthetic sand (LSS), made from dune sand and recycled PET bottles, to replace natural sand (0–100% by volume). This aligns with circular economy principles by valorizing plastic waste into a construction aggregate. LSS is produced via controlled thermal treatment (250 ± 5 °C, 50–60 rpm), crushing, and sieving (≤3.15 mm), leading to a significantly improved interfacial transition zone (ITZ) with the cement matrix. The evaluation included physico-mechanical tests (density, strength, UPV, dynamic modulus, ductility), thermal properties (conductivity, diffusivity, heat capacity), porosity, sorptivity, alkali–silica reaction (ASR), and SEM. The results show LSS incorporation reduces mortar density (4–23% for 25–100% LSS), lowering material and logistical costs. While compressive strength decreases (35–70%), these mortars remain suitable for low-stress applications. Specifically, at ≤25% LSS, composites retain 80% of their strength, making them ideal for structural uses. LSS also enhances ductility and reduces dynamic modulus (18–69%), providing beneficial flexibility. UPV decreases (8–39%), indicating improved acoustic insulation. Thermal performance improves (4–18% conductivity reduction), suggesting insulation applicability. A progressive decrease in sorptivity (up to 46%) enhances durability. Crucially, the lack of ASR susceptibility reinforces long-term durability. This research significantly contributes to the repurposing of plastic waste into sustainable cement-based materials, advancing sustainable material management in the construction sector. Full article
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