Building Materials - B Group

Vision and Scope

The Building Materials research group is committed to developing next-generation cementitious systems that combine superior structural performance, enhanced durability, and lower environmental impact. Our research aligns with the global agenda to decarbonise the construction sector, targeting a significant reduction in embodied CO₂ emissions while extending the service life and resilience of structures.

By integrating material science, structural engineering, and sustainability principles, we aim to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and large-scale application in the built environment.

Key Research Themes

Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) — Building on prior investigations led by Dr. Mohsen Bayat Pour, our team investigates the influence of fiber type, geometry, and distribution on the mechanical behaviour and crack control capacity of concrete. Our research explores both conventional and extreme exposure scenarios to improve tensile strength, ductility, and post-cracking performance, enabling the design of more robust and sustainable structural elements.
Novel Cementitious Binders — We explore low-clinker and alternative binder systems, including alkali-activated binders and blended cements with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). These systems aim to reduce CO₂ emissions, improve chemical resistance, and ensure long-term stability under diverse environmental exposures.
Durability and Service Life — Understanding and modelling transport phenomena such as moisture ingress, chloride penetration, and carbonation is a central aspect of our work. We link these mechanisms to service life prediction models, ensuring the development of durable and sustainable concrete technologies for next-generation infrastructure.

Selected Research and Ongoing Projects

Advanced Fiber Systems for Mechanical Enhancement — Development and experimental evaluation of fiber reinforced concrete with various fiber types, including steel, polypropylene, and hybrid fiber systems, to enhance tensile, bending, and fracture behaviour. The project includes experimental campaigns, numerical modelling, and long-term monitoring under realistic exposure conditions.
Novel Low-Carbon Binders for Durable Concrete — Research on alkali-activated binder systems and SCM-rich blends designed to reduce clinker content, minimise CO₂ footprint, and enhance long-term performance. The project focuses on optimising mix design, assessing workability and durability, and evaluating performance under aggressive environments.