Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The objective of this research is to develop and optimize innovative cementitious materials that integrate intelligent sensing capabilities and low-carbon footprints. This will enhance both the sustainability and resilience of modern infrastructures against adverse climatic conditions. Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in underpinning economic growth and community well-being. Yet, the conventional cement production process is responsible for over 5% of global carbon dioxide emissions. This stark figure highlights the pressing need for a dual approach: reducing the carbon footprint of construction materials while ensuring our infrastructures can adapt to and withstand evolving climatic conditions. To address this challenge, this proposed research program will first focus on the synthesis of hybrid cementitious binders. These binders will utilize industrial by-products such as fly ash and slag, as well as natural pozzolans, to reduce the conventional cement content and, consequently, the carbon footprint. The introduction of nano-materials, like graphene oxide or carbon nanotubes, is also anticipated to enhance the mechanical properties of the binders while enabling self-sensing functionalities. A significant innovation will be the integration of smart sensing capabilities within the material matrix. This will provide real-time monitoring of structural health, allowing for early detection of potential failures. Additionally, the exploration of self-healing mechanisms in the material matrix could revolutionize infrastructure design by enabling materials to automatically repair micro-cracks, significantly increasing the lifecycle of our built environment. Another critical component of the research will be to subject the developed materials to simulated climatic extremes. By exposing the materials to conditions such as freeze-thaw cycles, high temperatures, wet-dry cycles, and increased levels of carbon dioxide, the research aims to rigorously test their durability and resilience. This rigorous testing phase on a long term will then inform the development of comprehensive guidelines for infrastructure design using the new materials, ensuring that they remain resilient against a wide spectrum of anticipated climate impacts. In summary, this research addresses the intertwined challenges of the 21st century: climate change mitigation and adaptation. By pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction materials, this research program stands at the forefront of technology and environmental stewardship. The materials produced will not only lower the carbon footprint of future infrastructure projects but also endow them with the capabilities to monitor, adapt, and respond to our changing environment. This proactive approach ensures the longevity, safety, and sustainability of infrastructures for generations to come.