Published Online:January 2026
Product Name:The IUP Journal of Structural Engineering
Product Type:Article
Product Code:IJSE030126
DOI:10.71329/IUPJSE/2026.19.1.25-44
Author Name:Janhavi Dudhane and Mahesh Bangad
Availability:YES
Subject/Domain:Engineering
Download Format:PDF
Pages:25-44
The paper presents a cradle-to-grave life-cycle assessment (LCA) of ferrocement, analyzing its environmental impacts compared to the conventional construction systems such as reinforced cement concrete (RCC) and autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). The parameters considered are: embodied energy, carbon emissions, material efficiency, and end-of-life recyclability. The results indicate that ferrocement reduces embodied energy by up to 40% and uses 30-50% less cement and steel than RCC, while offering increased service life with minimum maintenance and ease of working. Its compatibility with organic construction principles and capacity for reuse or recycling at the end of its lifespan makes ferrocement a viable material for sustainable building practices. The findings reinforce the potential of ferrocement in achieving low-carbon, long-lasting construction with minimal ecological impact. Beyond the theoretical modeling, the paper also studies field applications to understand how ferrocement performs in real-life construction scenarios, especially in terms of embodied energy, carbon footprint, and material circularity. By connecting ferrocement with UNSDGs 11 and 12 and Indian green rating frameworks (GRIHA, IGBC), the paper positions ferrocement as not only a construction material but also a future-ready sustainability strategy. Thus, the investigation seeks to establish ferrocement not only as a construction technique but also as a sustainable strategy that supports long-term environmental goals in architecture.
Following the increasing demand in housing and building sector, the environmental impact of the construction industry has become a growing global concern, with cement production contributing significantly to carbon emissions, approximately 8% of global CO emissions (Akter & Hawas, 2025; Mehta & Monteiro, 2014).