Vida útil do betão revestido: uma nova revolução na durabilidade e sustentabilidade das construções

LifeCOAT project aims to increase the sustainability of buildings through a revolutionary approach to assessing the durability of reinforced concrete. Consequently, concrete can be used more efficiently, with less cement, less energy consumption, less environmental impacts, and a longer life cycle. Also, reducing the cost of construction, rehabilitation, and exploration. Additionally, enhance the mechanical capacity of reinforced concrete structures with less concrete reinforcement cover. It comes in the continuation of a previous investigation of Rui Reis (RR), Aires Camões (AC), Manuel Ribeiro (MR), and Raphael Malheiro (RM), which is now being submitted to a prestigious journal: protection of concrete against carbonation by traditional coatings" (CONBUILDMAT-D-24-03085). The main objectives of the LifeCOAT project are to solve 4 main problems found in the state of the art, as well as in the construction industry. i) Assess the durability of reinforced concrete when it is covered. In reality, the vast majority of current buildings are covered with a coating. Despite its presence, there has been no research on how it affects the durability of reinforced concrete. There are only a few studies that are extremely selective and punctual. The majority of the focus is on paintings or special coating. From the previous investigation indicated coated concrete has a non-negligible increase in durability against carbonation attacks. Also, the average performance of coated concrete is 52% higher than uncoated concrete. That is, it is something that is mandatory to investigate. ii) Revising the standards for durability. Changing the durability standards of reinforced concrete is essential if these excellent results are confirmed. Most of these coatings are not considered by these standards. iii) Reduce the cost of construction. Currently, it is necessary to design structures with higher strength concrete, just for durability reasons. Additionally, for the same reason, the structures are designed with thick cover, which decreases their mechanical capacity. Considering coatings can eliminate these two points. This will lead to more efficient structures, lower cement consumption, and more economical construction. iv) Building sustainability. Buildings are still characterized by high energy and greenhouse gas consumption today. The use of coatings makes it possible to build with less cement due to their high performance and durability. This is not a minor matter, as cement is responsible for 7% of greenhouse gases. Moreover, due to the impacts of climate change, it is a vital goal to reduce its impact. Or the next generations will definitely be impacted by it. For all these reasons, this project will contribute to the following developments: i) carbon neutrality by 2050; ii) meeting the sustainable development goals of the European Commission and the United Nations; iii) sustainable constructions; iv) economical constructions: v) efficient constructions; vi) durable constructions; vii) comprehensive durability standards; viii) scientific and technological advances.