Life Cycle-Based Assessment and Optimization of the Environmental Footprint of Alkali-Activated and Alternative Binders

Alkali-activated materials and other alternative binder systems represent a promising approach to reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry. Although they offer significant potential for lowering greenhouse gas emissions, their actual environmental performance depends on complex interactions between material composition, production processes, and life cycle conditions. The proposed research focuses on the systematic assessment of the environmental footprint of alkali-activated and alternative binders using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. The study will identify key factors influencing environmental impacts, including raw material selection, activator type, energy demand, and transport processes. Based on the obtained insights, strategies for optimizing material composition and processing routes will be proposed and validated, aiming to minimize environmental impacts while maintaining required material performance. The objective is to establish a methodological framework for the design of low-emission binder systems based on life cycle principles.