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Ecological Porous Concrete: A Review of Multi-Scale Pore Structure Engineering for Coupled Mechanical and Ecological
Wenjing Zhao1,2, Yalin Li3, Linan Gu2
1College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, China.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 15, 2026
Summary
Ecological porous concrete (EPC) balances structure and ecology by optimizing multi-scale pore design. This review proposes a cross-scale approach for enhanced performance in sustainable infrastructure.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Ecological porous concrete (EPC) provides structural integrity and ecosystem services.
- A conflict exists between high porosity for ecological benefits and mechanical strength.
- Current design methods neglect multi-scale pore interactions, hindering optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the correlations between EPC's multi-scale pore structures (micro-, meso-, macro-scale) and its properties.
- To propose a cross-scale collaborative design strategy for synergistic optimization of EPC.
- To provide theoretical support for precision design and large-scale application of EPC.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive synthesis of existing literature.
- Analysis of experimental, numerical, and theoretical studies.
- Examination of pore structures from micro-, meso-, and macro-scale perspectives.
Main Results:
- Microscale: Interfacial bonding, capillary pores, and alkalinity impact vegetation compatibility.
- Mesoscale: Porosity, tortuosity, and pore throats govern fluid transport and root penetration.
- Macroscale: Pore structure influences plant growth, hydrology, and slope stability.
Conclusions:
- A cross-scale design approach (microscopic reinforcement, mesoscopic continuity, macroscopic moderation) is proposed.
- This approach enables a transition from empirical to precision design for EPC.
- Optimized EPC design supports low-carbon applications in revetments, Sponge Cities, and slope restoration.
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