Active Projects:

• Sustainable cementitious materials

Sustainable Cementitious Materials

Materials research is a key focus area of our group. Our aim is to support the transition towards a more environmentally friendly construction industry through detailed characterisation of novel or emerging material concepts.

In fact, Ordinary Portland cement is the most widely used construction material worldwide; however, it significantly contributes to global CO₂ emissions due to clinker production. Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) represent a promising and more sustainable alternative to conventional binders,  reducing the environmental impact of cement-based materials while preserving the mechanical performance required for structural applications. They also promote the valorisation of industrial by-products and locally available resources.

Our research focuses on the characterization of SCMs, including blast furnace slag and limestone calcined clay cement (LC³). We investigate these materials in both their fresh (paste) and hardened states to assess their nano- and microstructure, elemental composition, and local chemical environment. These insights allow us to understand their reactivity, correlate their properties, and evaluate their durability.

A key objective of our research is to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and kinetics of the hydration process of SCMs, the series of chemical reactions responsible for cement setting, the development of strength, and long-term performance. 

To achieve these goals, we employ advanced multimodal characterization approaches that combine ex situ and in situ X-ray imaging, spectroscopy, and diffraction across multiple length scales. These techniques are performed both in our laboratories and at synchrotron radiation facilities, providing complementary information that supports the implementation and adoption of more sustainable cementitious binders.