Profile
Research activities at the Laboratory of Construction Materials (LMC) are focused on cementitious materials and on the micro-mechanics and processing of wood.The complexity and heterogeneity of cementitious materials make difficult the establishment of microstructure-property relationships. Within the LMC, quantitative microstructural characterisation and microstructural modelling provide a unique capability to study, understand and improve cementitious materials and their applications, ranging from mixing and placing to long-term performance (durability).
Two principal techniques are used : Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction coupled with Rietveld type analysis to quantify the development of crystalline hydration products (and by difference amorphous products). These techniques are complemented by the use of other classic and new techniques (e.g. TEM, TGA, NMR) available within EPFL or through international collaborations.The LMC studies also special cementitious materials which respond to severe environments thanks to properties such as increased resistance to chemical attack or mechanical abrasion, rapid hardening or shrinkage compensation. Moreover, the LMC carries out testing and contract work related to its competence.
Field of Expertise
- Quantitative microstuctural characterisation
- Microstructural modelling
References
- Leslie Holiday prize of the Institute of Materials
- Klaus Dyckerhoff Prize for outstanding lifetime contribution to the field of cement and concrete research
- Doctor Honoris Causa, Czech Technical University
- "Concrete Ambassador" of UK Concrete Society
- Kroll Medal and Prize of UK Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining
- Della Roy Lecture award, American Ceramic Society
- Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering (UK)
- Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Concrete Technology
