Influence and contribution of high-strength steels in connection with their use in anchoring systems and their manufacturing processes on CO2 reduction

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The paper examines how geotechnical anchoring systems can reduce their CO₂ footprint through choices in materials, manufacturing, system design and steel grade. Common systems—ground anchors, soil nails and micropiles—typically combine a steel load-bearing element with cement grout. Both materials contribute substantially to emissions.<br /><br />Steel made in electric arc furnaces (EAFs), primarily from recycled scrap, generally has a much lower carbon footprint than blast-furnace steel. Cement type also matters: lower-emission alternatives can substantially reduce emissions, where their performance meets applicable standards and project requirements. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) can help users compare products, and sustainability reporting is expected to become more widely required in Europe.<br /><br />The anchoring system itself affects the quantities of steel, cement and drilling required. Borehole size, geology, load transfer and corrosion-protection requirements all influence the best option. Solid bars with double corrosion protection and hollow bars with single protection have different material and installation demands; neither is universally preferable. The appropriate system must meet structural and durability requirements while minimizing resource use.<br /><br />High-strength steels can reduce the amount and weight of steel needed for equivalent capacity, lowering production emissions and potentially reducing transport costs and improving handling and safety. Examples include high-strength reinforcement for columns and tunnel anchors, with the latter reportedly achieving a 44% weight reduction compared with conventional anchors of equivalent capacity. Further savings may be possible if stronger components allow smaller boreholes.<br /><br />The paper notes that high-strength steel must be designed and applied carefully, particularly with respect to corrosion, hydrogen embrittlement and protection damage during installation. Overall, it argues that sustainability should be considered alongside load-bearing capacity and serviceability, with project-specific choices balancing technical performance, durability and environmental impact.

Keywords

geotechnical anchoring

CO2 footprint

ground anchors

soil nails

micropiles

electric arc furnace steel

cement grout

environmental product declarations

high-strength steel

corrosion protection