Review of advances and challenges in alkali-activated materials from dredged sediments

Dredging worldwide generates over 1 billion m³ of sediments annually, creating disposal and environmental challenges. Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) offer a circular pathway by converting dredged sediments (DS) into sustainable binders and aggregates. This review synthesizes 32 studies on DS-base...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Amine el Mahdi Safhi, Shima Pilehvar, Mahdi Kioumarsi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier 2025-09-01
Series:Open Ceramics
Subjects:
Online Access:http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666539525000914
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Dredging worldwide generates over 1 billion m³ of sediments annually, creating disposal and environmental challenges. Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) offer a circular pathway by converting dredged sediments (DS) into sustainable binders and aggregates. This review synthesizes 32 studies on DS-based AAMs, detailing sediments chemistry, pretreatment routes, mix-design strategies, performance, and field cases. Calcination or mechanochemical activation elevates DS reactivity, producing binders that achieve 28-day compressive strengths of 15–40 MPa and durable matrices resistant to sulfate, freeze–thaw, and carbonation. Processed DS sands can fully or partially replace natural fine aggregates while maintaining ≥25 MPa concrete strength. AAM matrices immobilize heavy metals, keeping leachate below inert-waste thresholds. Key knowledge gaps remain in standardized mix design, long-term durability, and regulatory acceptance. The review outlines research and policy priorities to scale DS-AAM technologies for low-carbon infrastructure.
ISSN:2666-5395