University of Twente Student Theses
Exploring Knowledge Gap in Geopolymer Concrete Adoption in the Dutch construction Industry
Aliyar Zanjani, M.H. (2024) Exploring Knowledge Gap in Geopolymer Concrete Adoption in the Dutch construction Industry.
|
PDF
1MB |
| Abstract: | The increasing demand for infrastructure and buildings has resulted in the utilization of enormous amounts of concrete as the main construction materials. One of the main components of conventional concrete is cement which harms the environment since it leads to the emission of CO2. There has been an increasing demand for alternative sustainable materials to address this issue. Geopolymer (low-carbon) concrete is an alternative to replace conventional concrete. However, some barriers hinder their utilization such as lack of knowledge and low awareness of its application. The main objective of this study is to explore how the knowledge of professionals within the construction industry can influence the adoption of geopolymer concrete as a sustainable building material. To achieve this goal, diffusion of innovation theory (DOI) was set as a theoretical model, and specific steps of this theory were utilized. Qualitative analysis was used to explore the findings from semi-structured interviews with construction professionals. Participants specialize in the concrete industry with a high level of knowledge and expertise. Although their knowledge and awareness could not represent the whole construction industry, they referred to challenges regarding awareness about geopolymer concrete. The findings showed that younger professionals are more open to innovation because of their involvement with environmental issues and education. This is also the case with education where educated individuals better understand new materials applications since they are informed about relevant advantages. Analyzing responses for personality variables, including all three features of environmental, technological, and leadership skills is crucial to implementing innovative solutions. In addition, results highlighted the importance of formal channels like specific magazines, seminars, and informal communication such as social media and peer-to-peer recommendations to enhance information sharing. Moreover, the conservative nature of the construction sector hinders the adoption of innovative materials because of the competition. Companies are not willing to share detailed information about their specific materials. There are also concerns about regulatory frameworks, availability of materials, and prioritizing budget and time, hindering the adoption of new materials such as geopolymer concrete. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 43 environmental science, 70 social sciences in general |
| Programme: | Environmental and Energy Management MSc (69319) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/102744 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page