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Modified concrete with recycled materials for surface temperature reduction in urban environments
Pradeep Kuhar1, Amardeep Boora2
1Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India. pradeepkuhar@gmail.com.
Environmental Science and Pollution Research International
|October 28, 2025
Summary
This study shows lime improves concrete strength and reduces surface temperatures, offering a sustainable solution for urban heat island effects. Lime enhances mechanical properties and lowers costs in construction materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Urban centers experience higher temperatures than rural areas due to urban growth and pavement heat.
- These elevated temperatures negatively impact human comfort and the environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of lime as an additive in modified concrete mixes.
- To assess its impact on mechanical strength, thermal regulation, and flexural performance.
Main Methods:
- Modified concrete mixes incorporating lime were tested.
- Mechanical strengths (compressive, split tensile, flexural) were evaluated.
- Surface temperature changes and cost-effectiveness were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Lime addition significantly enhanced compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths.
- A 30% steel slag substitution with lime improved concrete quality.
- Lime reduced surface temperatures by up to 5%, aiding urban heat island mitigation.
- Cost reductions of 4%-8% were observed with lime, steel slag, and plastic aggregates.
Conclusions:
- Lime is an effective sustainable additive for concrete manufacturing.
- Optimized lime-based concrete shows potential for ecological building and mitigating urban heat island effects.
- Further research into mix optimization and durability is recommended for broader application.
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