Investigation into the Production of Green Concrete Resistant to Aggressive Environments Using Saline-Contaminated Aggregates for River and Coastal Infrastructure in the Southwest region of Viet Nam

Abstract

This study presents the results of research on the feasibility of producing durable green concrete against aggressive environments, using locally available saline-contaminated aggregates and non-cement binders for infrastructure construction in riverine and coastal areas of the Southwest region of Viet Nam. The binder material was synthesized from fly ash, finely ground blast furnace slag, and silica fume, alkali-activated with NaOH and Na₂SiO₃ solutions, combined with a new-generation superplasticizer. The mix design was developed to meet the following criteria: workability (slump of 12–20 cm), compressive strength of 50–60 MPa after 28 days, resistance to chloride ion penetration, sulfate attack resistance, and failure time in artificial seawater exceeding 60 days. The results demonstrate that utilizing saline-contaminated aggregates and industrial by-products helps reduce dependence on traditional materials, lower costs, limit CO₂ emissions, and enhance the sustainability of structures. This type of concrete has potential applications for river and coastal embankments, seaports, coastal roads, breakwaters, and defense–security structures in areas severely affected by salinity intrusion and climate change in the Southwest region of Viet Nam.