Ecological Porous Concrete: A Review of Multi-Scale Pore Structure Engineering for Coupled Mechanical and Ecological Performance

Ecological porous concrete (EPC) offers both structural performance and ecosystem services, yet an inherent contradiction exists between the ecological benefits of high porosity and mechanical performance. Traditional design methods focusing solely on macro-scale porosity fail to achieve synergistic optimization. This review comprehensively synthesizes the intrinsic correlations between EPC’s multi-scale pore structures and key properties from micro-, meso-, and macro-scale perspectives, drawing upon representative studies across experimental, numerical, and theoretical approaches. The microscale reveals interfacial transition zone bonding, capillary pore effects, and alkalinity regulation for vegetation compatibility. The mesoscale clarifies the control of effective porosity, tortuosity, and pore throats on fluid transport and root penetration. The macro-scale analyzes skeletal pore support for plant growth, hydrology, and slope stability. A cross-scale collaborative design approach is proposed, featuring microscopic reinforcement, mesoscopic continuity, and macroscopic moderation. This paper provides theoretical support for EPC’s transition from empirical to precision design, promoting low-carbon and large-scale applications in revetments, Sponge Cities, and slope restoration.