Innovative low carbon construction materials for future infrastructure

About the Project

Achieving decarbonisation targets in the construction sector requires the development of innovative, resource-efficient, and low-carbon construction materials. This project addresses this urgent challenge by exploring next-generation materials and technologies that significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the built environment while maintaining or enhancing performance.

A wide range of research directions may be pursued, including novel low-carbon cement-based or polymer-based composites (such as strain-hardening composites, textile-reinforced concretes, and calcined-clay-based concretes), bio-based construction materials, low-carbon bricks and mortars, earth-based materials, and non-metallic reinforcement systems for concrete infrastructure. An alternative and complementary approach involves enhancing the performance of conventional materials through micro- or nano-scale modifications, such as graphene- or nanomaterial-enhanced concretes.

In this project, the PhD candidate will have the flexibility to develop a new innovative construction material or to optimise the performance of an existing one, aligned with their interests and background. The research will combine advanced materials modelling, experimental testing, and performance evaluation. Throughout the project, the candidate will receive extensive hands-on training in state-of-the-art material characterisation and modelling techniques, work closely with internationally recognised academics and experts, and engage with key industrial stakeholders. The project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful, practice-oriented research that supports the transition to a more sustainable construction sector.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated home/UK student with good interpersonal skills and a keen interest in research. You must have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honors degree or a distinction or high merit at MSc level (or international equivalent) in Civil Engineering, mathematics or a related subject. Preference will be given to candidates with educational and/or research experience in engineering. Experience in experimental materials characterisation is essential. The candidate will be expected to have good interpersonal skills. For further details and discussion about the position, please contact Dr Bahman Ghiassi (b.ghiassi@bham.ac.uk).

Funding Notes

This project is for self-funded students only.