Tailored Reinforced Concrete Infrastructure: Boosting the Innate Response to Chemical and Mechanical Threats

Lead Research Organisation: University of Cambridge
Department Name: Engineering

Abstract

The required global infrastructure investment from 2013-2030 is estimated to be £34 trillion. Thus there are significant social and economic ramifications associated with the utilisation and design of strategic infrastructure assets which are fit for purpose both now, and in the future. Nationally, the construction sector is vital and contributes around £90 billion annually to the UK economy.

This EPSRC Established Career Fellowship will provide Dr Lees with the prestige and freedom to extend the impact of her research and develop a new field of research dedicated to the creation of tailored concrete infrastructure. The enhancement of the innate characteristics of reinforced concrete with a concurrent reduction in total cement content directly links to key Engineering global grand challenges for Sustainability and Resilience. Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world, over 4 billion tonnes in 2013, and cement production is responsible for 5-7% of man-made CO2 emissions. 'Cradle to factory gate' emissions for CEM 1 are 913 kg CO2e for 1000 kg of cement. The sustainability credentials of the proposed research are to mitigate the scale of this environmental impact through the delivery of more durable construction, a reduction in the cement content in concrete products, and material efficiency.

The 'innate' characteristics of our reinforced concrete infrastructure include an inherent resistance to a myriad of deterioration causes e.g. chemical attack, chloride ingress, and mechanical actions e.g. dead and live loads. To help achieve the desired resistance, minimum cement contents are specified for a required strength or durability. In conventional practice, the same concrete mix is used throughout a given structural element. A compelling new paradigm is to break from conventional thinking and reinterpret a reinforced concrete structure as a tailored continuum to meet a desired serviceability, strength and/or durability performance. Material with high cement content is used judiciously to boost the innate response of our reinforced concrete infrastructure by explicitly recognising, targeting and reacting to environmental and mechanical threats to structural performance. In this way, there is either no loss, or an enhancement, in structural and durability functions. The innate immunity against environmental actions is boosted for corrosion prevention whereas the adaptability in response to mechanical actions is enhanced through the novel design of the concrete continuum for a greater structural resilience. These deliverables present a unique opportunity for the PI, UK Academia and UK Industry, to establish a world leading capability in a nascent field while addressing Engineering Sustainability priorities for lifetime extension, reduced lifetime costs, energy minimisation and a reduction in over-engineering.

Planned Impact

Cement production is energy intensive and accounts for 5-7% of manmade CO2 emissions. Nevertheless concrete is the mostly widely used construction material in the world. Significant economic, environmental and societal impacts will be realised as a result of clever innovation to reduce cement usage.

Tailored reinforced concrete infrastructure opens up vast opportunities for improved material efficiencies and CO2 reductions while maintaining structural integrity throughout the lifetime of a structure. Corrosion prevention and an inherent adaptability in response to mechanical actions provide more efficient and durable structural members. Less energy intensive concrete infrastructure that remains fit-for-purpose for longer mitigates negative financial, societal and environmental impacts associated with CO2 emissions, deteriorating infrastructure, maintenance interventions and user disruption. This will assist governments and policy-makers in meeting environmental targets and improving the quality of life of the nation.

As the result of this Fellowship, the UK will become the global leader in an exciting new growth area. Tangible commercial and reputational benefits will be realised by UK construction from the early exploitation of tailored concrete technology over a short to medium term horizon. Access to novel underpinning research will also mean that UK Industry is poised to beneficially exploit rapid advances in manufacturing adding further value to the construction sector and competitive advantage.

Novel, evidence-based research is at the heart of the Fellowship proposal. The PI has a strong track record in delivering internationally leading research, communicating advances within professional fora, and in translating research into practice. The Advisory Committee meetings, Industrial Engagement events and Academic collaborator meetings provide opportunities for discussion and dissemination with a range of stakeholders. High profile participants, partners and collaborators will extend the impact by communicating the outcomes throughout their own institutions, to professional bodies, including design code committees, and to their wider network of contacts throughout the supply chain. This will lead to an enhanced understanding and acceptance of the innovations, greater exploitation, and a more sustainable basis for the design and construction of future infrastructure. Large scale multi-disciplinary proposals led by the PI will capitalise on the Fellowship deliverables and will shape national research priorities.

The Fellowship will provide freedom for the PI to gain a fuller appreciation and knowledge of connectivities with cognate areas to make even greater contributions towards addressing Engineering for Sustainability and Resilience challenges. The PDRAs will develop tremendous core expertise in reinforced concrete and concrete technology with multi-disciplinary knowledge relating to sustainability, optimisation and manufacturing leading to a unique skill set that meets tomorrow's needs. As the 2014 ICE State of the Nation Report notes 'The civil engineering industry of tomorrow will require a wider range of skills and competencies.' and hence the PDRAs will be in high demand from academic, or non-academic, employers. Affiliated MEng and PhD students will flourish as part of a vibrant, supportive, project team delivering world-leading research and be well-prepared to make their mark in their future professional careers.

Outreach and community activity will promote public recognition of the energy intensity of cement embodied within our reinforced concrete infrastructure. This will encourage dialogue and the exchange of ideas on how to promote a more sustainable vision and the important role of Civil Engineering in creating the lifelines for society. Excitement about the creation of bespoke materials will inspire future generations of Engineers.
 
Description The production of cement is currently associated with around 5% of global carbon emissions. The manufacture of functionally graded structural concrete elements, where the material composition is varied over the volume, allows the use of cement to be optimised and minimized (Torelli, Gimenez Fernandez and Lees, 2020). Gradation of material properties can be achieved by casting horizontal or vertical layers of concrete having different homogeneous compositions. Casting of layers in the wet state offers certain mechanical and productivity advantages but one challenge with this approach is the control of the fresh state deformations of the different concrete layers during manufacture. Findings on horizontal layering have elucidated the interplay between the rheology and density of different concrete mixes and the intended geometry (Brault and Lees, 2020). This provides a framework for the selection of compatible mixes to achieve desired mix combinations. The fresh state stability of two vertical layers of different mixes is also of interest (Torelli and Lees, 2019, Torelli and Lees, 2020). Original experiments have been undertaken where either stable or unstable behaviour was invoked. The concurrent development of a new limit-state model to capture the relationship between system stability, geometry and material parameters shows great promise. When concrete is layered in the fresh state, there is an interface between the concrete layers. The integrity of this interface will depend on the way the concrete is manufactured, the concrete mix compositions and the time delay between the deposition of the layers. Studies to characterise the behaviour of interfaces are informing the most desirable parametric combinations to ensure the interface does not introduce a plane of weakness (Torelli and Lees, 2020, Maier and Lees, 2022). We have now progressed our understanding to the point where we have demonstrated viable functionally graded structural elements. Functionally graded slab prototypes have provided insight into design approaches for layered systems and concrete combinations that minimize the embodied CO2 to meet desired performance requirements (Gimenez Fernandez, 2022). Another remarkable outcome has been findings related to shear critical beams where we have shown that through clever geometric considerations and material choices we can concurrently reduce the embodied energy by approximately 35% and increase the load capacity by around 95% (Mak and Lees 2021, Mak and Lees 2022, Mak and Lees 2023a, Mak and Lees 2023b). A further promising application area for functionally graded concrete is to provide an external durability layer to mitigate the ingress of deleterious materials. As such, detailed investigations of the carbonation resistance of layered concrete have been conducted (Forsdyke and Lees 2021, Forsdyke and Lees 2022, Forsdyke and Lees 2023) to demonstrate advantageous layer combinations. We continually benchmark our innovations against the best possible conventional solutions using current practices and materials to provide meaningful comparators. As such, through our work we have also gained deep insights into wasteful inefficient examples prevalent in UK concrete construction. Our research has therefore also been a platform for advocacy and leadership for the immediate elimination of concretes with unnecessary high CO2 intensity. For example, we have worked with National Highways to help change their concrete specification with immediate effect to save tens of thousands of concrete CO2 emissions each year. This outcome has exemplified the pivotal role academic endeavour can play in delivering change.
Exploitation Route These outcomes are underpinning growing international academic and industrial interest in functionally graded concrete and contributing to the implementation of more sustainable concrete.
Sectors Construction,Transport
 
Description The Tailored Reinforced Concrete Infrastructure EPSRC Established Career Fellowship has been a catalyst for challenging conventional concrete construction and moving forward innovation. No two concretes are alike: the constituents are natural materials with inherent variability, a multitude of different constituents (binders, aggregates) can be combined and the proportions of constituents vary. This offers great scope for better choices with lower CO2 impact but also a barrier to change when current practice conservatively reverts to tried and tested high carbon intensive mix designs. From the outset our main focus has been to research novel functionally graded concrete where the concrete materials are spatially tailored to suit performance requirements. In this way, high cement concretes are used only where necessary and the cement contents minimised elsewhere. This leads to more efficient structures with lower embodied CO2 and has delivered new thinking about concrete performance, cement reduction and structural efficiency. To maximise productivity and the propensity for hydration across interfaces, our approach is to wet cast layers of different concretes to create functionally graded structures. As such, an understanding of the fresh state rheology and compatibility of different concrete layers is required to ensure successful deposition during manufacture. Since interfaces are created between layers, inter-layer fracture and the influence of the materials e.g. mix property differentials and processing parameters, have been avenues for exploration. Knowledge of compatible material combinations to meet manufacturing constraints and the desired interface outcomes has informed the material selection in novel functionally graded structural prototypes. Our research on viable functionally graded slabs and voided shear critical graded beams has shown that we can concurrently reduce the embodied energy and retain or improve performance. Our research has also been a platform for advocacy and leadership for the immediate elimination of concretes with unnecessary high CO2 intensity.
First Year Of Impact 2020
Sector Construction
Impact Types Societal,Economic,Policy & public services
 
Description Influence on National Highways Standards - MCHW Series 2600 Replacement of standardised prescribed ST type concrete with designated GEN/RC type concrete
Geographic Reach National 
Policy Influence Type Contribution to new or improved professional practice
Impact Changes to National Highways Standards which has potential savings of 10s of thousands of tonnes of CO2 a year.
URL https://www.csap.cam.ac.uk/Research-Policy-Engagement/pathways-impact/case-study-stephen-elderkin/
 
Description Member of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Talent Peer Review College
Geographic Reach National 
Policy Influence Type Participation in a guidance/advisory committee
 
Description Recognition of a significant contribution to EPSRC Peer Review - May 2021
Geographic Reach National 
Policy Influence Type Membership of a guideline committee
 
Description CDT in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment Studentship
Amount £80,000 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/L016095/1 
Organisation University of Oxford 
Department EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
Sector Academic/University
Country United Kingdom
Start 10/2017 
End 09/2020
 
Description CSIC Innovation and Knowledge Centre Phase 2
Amount £2,499,396 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/N021614/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 06/2016 
End 06/2023
 
Description Costain/EPSRC FIBE2 CDT MRes/PhD Studentship
Amount £6,761,084 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/S02302X/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 10/2021 
End 09/2025
 
Description Costain/EPSRC FIBE2 CDT MRes/PhD Studentship - Performance-based Concrete
Amount £6,761,084 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/S02302X/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 10/2023 
End 09/2027
 
Description EPSRC - University of Cambridge Doctoral Training Partnership Award
Amount £70,000 (GBP)
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 10/2019 
End 09/2022
 
Description EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment: Resilience in a Changing World (FIBE2)
Amount £6,761,084 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/S02302X/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 10/2019 
End 03/2028
 
Description IETF industrial energy efficiency and decarbonisation studies
Amount £556,742 (GBP)
Organisation Innovate UK 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 04/2021 
End 03/2022
 
Description Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship - Textile-reinforced tailored concrete structures
Amount £121,353 (GBP)
Funding ID 101027058 
Organisation Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country Global
Start 10/2021 
End 01/2023
 
Description Structural systems beyond 2050: Strategic large-scale experimental hub
Amount £50,000 (GBP)
Organisation University of Cambridge 
Department Isaac Newton Trust
Sector Academic/University
Country United Kingdom
Start  
 
Title Data supporting Interlayer fracture behaviour of functionally layered concrete 
Description Data supporting Interlayer fracture behaviour of functionally layered concrete The dataset contains the measurement of the compressive strength and density of each mixture and mixture combination as defined in the manuscript and the data of the fracture properties obtained from the Wedge-Splitting Test such splitting Force and total fracture energy. Furthermore the dataset also contains the raw measurement of the dynamic E-modulus. 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2022 
Provided To Others? Yes  
Impact The data supports the following findings reported in Maier, M and Lees JM. (2022) Interlayer fracture behaviour of functionally layered concrete, Engineering Fracture Mechanics, 271, 108672. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engfracmech.2022.108672: Functionally layered concrete can reduce material usage and the CO2 footprint of the construction industry. The Interlayer fracture properties of functionally layered concretes are investigated. Wedge splitting tests on multi-mix and single-mix combinations are performed with pour delays of up to 4 h. Results showed that the multi-mix fracture behaviour depends not only on the pour delay but also on the mix combination. Results showed that an uplift of fracture properties for functionally graded specimens is possible compared to single-mix specimens. 
URL https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/339505
 
Title Data supporting: Arch action in reinforced concrete subjected to shear 
Description Dataset contains results from an experimental programme that investigated the structural effects of the targeted removal of material in reinforced concrete beams subjected to shear, the effectiveness of arch action and a new approach to shear design. It includes information on concrete mix composition, results from standard material characterisation tests (i.e. compressive strength on cubes and cylinders, indirect tensile splitting strength), load-deflection curves, crack widths, compressive strains in the concrete struts from LED tracking systems and tensile strains in the steel reinforcement from strain gauges. 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2023 
Provided To Others? Yes  
Impact Evidence for improved understanding of the shear behaviour of reinforced concrete elements without shear reinforcement. The data was used for the publication Mak, M.W.T. and Lees, J.M. (2023) Arch action in reinforced concrete subjected to shear. Engineering Structures, 274:115096. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2022.115096 
URL https://doi.org/10.17863/CAM.89177
 
Title Data supporting: Carbon reduction and strength enhancement in functionally graded reinforced concrete beams 
Description Evidence for improved understanding of the behaviour of functionally graded reinforced concrete elements. The data was used for the publication Mak, M.W.T. and Lees, J.M. (2023) Carbon reduction and strength enhancement in functionally graded reinforced concrete beams. Engineering Structures, 277:115358 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2022.115358 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2023 
Provided To Others? Yes  
Impact Dataset contains results from an experimental programme that investigated the structural behaviour of functionally graded reinforced concrete structures where a preferential internal resisting mechanism was isolated and a concrete with a lower density and lower embodied carbon was used elsewhere. It includes information on concrete mix composition, results from standard material characterisation tests (i.e. compressive strength on cubes and cylinders, indirect tensile splitting strength), load-deflection curves, compressive strains in the concrete struts from LED tracking systems and tensile strains in the steel reinforcement from strain gauges. 
URL https://doi.org/10.17863/CAM.90977
 
Title Dataset supporting Model fitting to concrete carbonation data with non-zero initial carbonation depth 
Description The dataset contains the results of curve fitting two alternative models to 361 data series of carbonation depth vs carbonation exposure time. The sources of original data series are cited, and details about the initial depth, test duration and CO2 concentration are included for each series. Results from each curve fitting include the estimated carbonation coefficient, K, and the R2 and RMSE values of each of these fits. The error in K from the linear model compared to the non-linear model is reported for each series, as well as the predicted depth at the end of the test using the non-linear model. 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2023 
Provided To Others? Yes  
Impact The results support the following findings reported in: Forsdyke, J.C., Lees, J.M. Model fitting to concrete carbonation data with non-zero initial carbonation depth. Mater Struct 56, 22 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-023-02104-0 Carbonation is a key mechanism for deterioration of reinforced concrete structures. In design for resistance to carbonation, the performance of mixes is often specified and measured in laboratory carbonation tests where initial carbonation is sometimes present in specimens. The coherent interpretation of results from carbonation tests is vital as they enable a more accurate prediction of the performance of concrete structures in situ. This paper assesses two different approaches to considering the initial carbonation depth when extracting the carbonation coefficient from results of carbonation testing. Experimental data is compared to models for either approach using least squares regression. Both linear and non-linear representations of the initial carbonation depth are shown to fit the data well. The non-linear approach gives a larger estimate of carbonation coefficient than the linear approach, and is more consistent with the mathematical derivation of the carbonation equation. The ramifications of this difference will be most significant when the initial carbonation depth is large relative to the depth of the carbonation front. The accurate modelling of carbonation progression underpins performance-based design of new concrete structures and the assessment of existing concrete infrastructure. 
URL https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/344843
 
Title Research data supporting "Fresh state stability of vertical layers of concrete". 
Description Spreadsheet (.xlsx) containing research data supporting "Fresh state stability of vertical layers of concrete". The following data are provided: • Mix composition of the mortars used in the experiments. • Densities of the mix constituents. • Experimental measurements for the mixes under investigations: density, spread length, yield stress, difference in yield stresses, sum of the yield stresses, stability coefficient, ratio between lower and higher yield stress, and maximum horizontal displacement of the interface between the two vertical layers of concrete. • Relationship between sum of the yield stresses, difference in densities of the materials, and average horizontal displacement obtained for each test. • Maximum horizontal displacement d as a function of the stability coefficient. • Analytical bound solutions and experimentally measured relationship between sum of the yield stresses, difference in densities of the materials, and average horizontal displacement obtained for each test. • Analytical bound solutions and experimentally measured maximum horizontal displacement as a function of the stability coefficient. 
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2019 
Provided To Others? Yes  
 
Title Research data supporting "Interface bond strength of lightweight low-cement functionally layered concrete elements". 
Description  
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2020 
Provided To Others? Yes  
URL https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/305186
 
Title Research data supporting Brault, A and Lees, JM (2020) Wet casting of multiple mix horizontally layered concrete elements, Construction and Building Materials, v 247, 118514 
Description  
Type Of Material Database/Collection of data 
Year Produced 2020 
Provided To Others? Yes  
URL https://www.repository.cam.ac.uk/handle/1810/308991
 
Description Collaboration with colleagues in Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge on application of machine learning to concrete 
Organisation University of Cambridge
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We have provided insight into fundamental concrete parameters and potential correlations. We have conducted experimental work to provide training data sets and to validate machine learning informed predictions.
Collaborator Contribution Our colleagues in Physics have developed machine learning algorithms to analyse our data and to make predictions of promising concrete mixes
Impact This is a multi-disciplinary collaboration between engineering and physics. We have submitted a co-authored journal paper for review.
Start Year 2021
 
Description Highways England 
Organisation Department of Transport
Department Highways Agency
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution Knowledge transfer, delivery of research advances and sharing of research findings
Collaborator Contribution Highways England have supported a number of funded EPSRC projects including (EP/K016148, GR/S55101/01, EP/I018972/1 and EP/J002887/1). This support has included technical guidance, access to data relating to reinforced concrete infrastructure, sharing of experience in managing the strategic road network in the UK and guidance regarding the main challenges faced on the network. This has ensured the long-term relevance of our research and extensive knowledge exchange.
Impact Knowledge transfer, revision of design guidance, formulation of research proposals for funding, improved understanding of reinforced concrete infrastructure assets
Start Year 2006
 
Description Knowledge Exchange between National Highways and Cambridge on Sustainable Concrete 
Organisation Highways England
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Sharing of research findings and insights from community of practice around remit of sustainable digital concrete.
Collaborator Contribution Sharing of priorities and strategic directions for net zero concrete.
Impact Changes to National Highways standards - MCHW Series 2600 Replacement of standardised prescribed ST type concrete with designated GEN/RC type concrete
Start Year 2021
 
Description Knowledge Exchange between the University of Ghent and Cambridge University 
Organisation University of Ghent
Country Belgium 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We hosted a collaborative visit from Professor Geert de Schutter from University of Ghent in Nov 2022
Collaborator Contribution Research presentations and discussion of collaborative opportunities.
Impact Early stages of a new collaboration so no outputs as yet
Start Year 2022
 
Description Knowledge Exchange with Laing O'Rourke 
Organisation Laing O'Rourke
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Dissemination of research findings/technical guidance/knowledge exchange
Collaborator Contribution Strategic input into research directions and impact pathways
Impact A funded IETF DPCM (Decarbonising Precast Concrete Manufacturing) project ensued Knowledge exchange
Start Year 2017
 
Description Knowledge Exchange with University of Michigan 
Organisation University of Michigan
Country United States 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We are engaging in knowledge exchange with the University of Michigan with the aim of submitting a collaborative proposal for research. An initial collaboration visit in Feb 2020 was funded through a Michigan-Cambridge Research Initiative. This was a catalyst for regular meetings between McGee (Michigan), Li (Michigan) and Lees (Cambridge) to develop ideas and formulate collaborative research directions.
Collaborator Contribution Knowledge exchange and ongoing engagement.
Impact We envisage that the outcomes will emerge in coming years.
Start Year 2020
 
Description Knowledge exchange between Highways England and Cambridge on UHPFRC 
Organisation Department of Transport
Department Highways Agency
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution Highways England have an interest in the potential use of Ultra High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) but there are limitation in our understanding of the behaviour of the material in shear. During 2018/19, a Cambridge MEng student supervised by Lees has conducted analytical and experimental work to scope specific knowledge gaps and the findings suggest contradictions in proposed design practice.
Collaborator Contribution Highways England have provided supporting material and technical advice throughout the project.
Impact Professor Lees chaired a panel on UHPFRC as part of a Dec 2018 Cambridge Centre for Smart Infrastructure & Construction (CSIC) Industry Meeting. This initiative engaged industry partners and National Highways interests.
Start Year 2018
 
Description Knowledge exchange between University of Cambridge, University of Southampton, and University of Oxford 
Organisation University of Oxford
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution This collaboration draws on University of Southampton expertise in fibre-optic sensor development and fibre-optic sensor analysis, University of Oxford knowledge of embedded sensing systems in smart pipe tunnel segments, and world leading University of Cambridge infrastructure sensing and concrete material research. One planned outcome of this collaboration is to use experimental tests on fundamental concrete behaviour, currently being performed at Cambridge, as a testbed for novel embedded fibre-optic sensors that are being developed at Southampton. This will allow for detailed evaluation of the new sensors themselves, against established sensing methods. The data recorded by these new sensors are expected to be of higher quality and will be used to develop improved models of concrete material behaviour. These tests are ongoing.
Collaborator Contribution Regular knowledge exchange is underway and joint projects planned. Most recently, in December 2022, Martynas Beresna (Southampton) and research students from Southampton and Oxford visited labs at the National Research Facility for Infrastructure Sensing (NRFIS), University of Cambridge. Fibre-optic analysers at Cambridge were used to conduct initial trials of the novel sensors developed by Southampton. Further work is now underway to prepare these sensors for embedment in concrete material tests.
Impact The collaboration is multi-disciplinary. Beresna (Southampton) research interests include fiber optic sensors, distributed sensing systems, miniature optical imaging and spectrometry systems. Sheil (Oxford) has experimental geotechnics expertise and keen interests in intelligent monitoring to inform underground construction processes. Lees (Cambridge) contributes deep insight into concrete material and structural behaviour. The collaboration also draws upon Cambridge's strong position as a National Research Facility for Infrastructure Sensing.
Start Year 2019
 
Description Knowledge exchange between University of Cambridge, University of Southampton, and University of Oxford 
Organisation University of Southampton
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution This collaboration draws on University of Southampton expertise in fibre-optic sensor development and fibre-optic sensor analysis, University of Oxford knowledge of embedded sensing systems in smart pipe tunnel segments, and world leading University of Cambridge infrastructure sensing and concrete material research. One planned outcome of this collaboration is to use experimental tests on fundamental concrete behaviour, currently being performed at Cambridge, as a testbed for novel embedded fibre-optic sensors that are being developed at Southampton. This will allow for detailed evaluation of the new sensors themselves, against established sensing methods. The data recorded by these new sensors are expected to be of higher quality and will be used to develop improved models of concrete material behaviour. These tests are ongoing.
Collaborator Contribution Regular knowledge exchange is underway and joint projects planned. Most recently, in December 2022, Martynas Beresna (Southampton) and research students from Southampton and Oxford visited labs at the National Research Facility for Infrastructure Sensing (NRFIS), University of Cambridge. Fibre-optic analysers at Cambridge were used to conduct initial trials of the novel sensors developed by Southampton. Further work is now underway to prepare these sensors for embedment in concrete material tests.
Impact The collaboration is multi-disciplinary. Beresna (Southampton) research interests include fiber optic sensors, distributed sensing systems, miniature optical imaging and spectrometry systems. Sheil (Oxford) has experimental geotechnics expertise and keen interests in intelligent monitoring to inform underground construction processes. Lees (Cambridge) contributes deep insight into concrete material and structural behaviour. The collaboration also draws upon Cambridge's strong position as a National Research Facility for Infrastructure Sensing.
Start Year 2019
 
Description Knowledge exchange between the University of Cambridge and Queen's University 
Organisation Queen's University
Country Canada 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution As a result of Dr Janet Lees' overseas travel award for research visits to Canada (EP/J002887/1), Dr Lees and Professor Hoult from Queen's University strengthened existing collaborations and forged new collaborations. They collaborated on an MSc student project at Queen's University which was based on research conducted at Cambridge investigating crack propagation. This resulted in a joint publication. Dr Lees has provided strategic technical guidance through her membership of the Steering Committee of a Canadian NSERC Strategic grant led by Professor Hoult in collaboration with the University of Toronto and the University of Ottawa.
Collaborator Contribution Professor Hoult and his team have provided fibre optic sensor and digital image correlation expertise which has helped to validate models developed at Cambridge. Professor Hoult was a member of the International Steering Committee for our Cambridge-based EPSRC funded research project (EP/K016148/1) to investigate reinforced concrete half joints and is collaborating with Professor Lees on EPSRC Established Career Fellowship Tailored Reinforced Concrete Infrastructure project (EP/N017668/1). During regular visits to Cambridge Professor Hoult has been working with the project team on collaborative aspects. We also collaborate through SKYPE meetings.
Impact Additional research funding, international research collaboration, knowledge transfer, student training
Start Year 2010
 
Description Knowledge exchange between the University of Cambridge and University of Toronto 
Organisation University of Toronto
Department Civil and Mineral Engineering
Country Canada 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution As a result of Dr Janet Lees' overseas travel award for collaborative research visits to Canada (EP/J002887/1), a number of new and exciting research projects have been instigated in collaboration with the University of Toronto (U of T). A PhD project at the University of Cambridge (2012-2016) undertook research to investigate the time-dependent behaviour of reinforced concrete. The Cambridge PhD student applied an analytical approach developed at the University of Toronto (U of T) and linked this to experiments undertaken in Cambridge. The collaboration with U of T also benefited an EPSRC funded project relating to the CFRP shear strengthening of reinforced concrete T-beams (EP/J002887/1) where the Cambridge team built on analytical work undertaken by the University of Toronto and adapted this to a new class of problems. Our two Institutions actively share and discuss research findings.
Collaborator Contribution Under the aegis of EP/J002887/1 Professors Bentz and Collins hosted Dr Lees in Toronto during Spring/Summer 2012 and subsequently on short term repeat visits during 2013/2104. Dr Lees worked with Professors Bentz and Collins during her stays and was not charged a bench fee. As a result of these visits and discussions, Dr Lees submitted a successful EPSRC proposal - Reinforced concrete half-joint structures: Structural integrity implications of reinforcement detailing and deterioration (EP/K016148/1). To further develop our collaboration, Professor Bentz spent a three month period of sabbatical leave at the University of Cambridge in 2014. Professors Bentz and Collins were International Collaborators on the EPSRC project on reinforced concrete half-joint structures (EP/K016148/1) and are also collaborating with Cambridge on our latest work on tailored reinforced concrete infrastructure (EP/N017668/1).
Impact Additional research funding, international research collaboration, new approaches to reinforced concrete design, analysis and assessment, student training
Start Year 2012
 
Description Knowledge exchange with Arup on Reinforced Concrete Design & Assessment 
Organisation Arup Group
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Ongoing engagement with ARUP team regarding research findings Hosting of a Cambridge/ARUP meeting in Cambridge on Feb 1, 2019 on recent research findings in relation to the strength assessment of reinforced concrete bridges, and tailored reinforced concrete structures
Collaborator Contribution Technical advice and feedback
Impact Closer collaboration, knowledge transfer
Start Year 2017
 
Description Knowledge exchange with SOM 
Organisation Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP
Country United States 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Regular meetings are providing an excellent forum to disseminate our latest research findings and benefit from advice and feedback from SOM experts.
Collaborator Contribution Ongoing technical support and knowledge exchange
Impact Access to data and SOM environmental impact tool, technical advice
Start Year 2020
 
Description Knowledge exchange/Regular academia-industry workshops with Costain 
Organisation Costain Group
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Costain and Cambridge have established regular online and in person workshops with researchers, Costain stakeholders and members of Costain's supply chain. This merges together key players in concrete decision making and the latest research findings and advances. These workshops are proving to be very influential in identifying potential barriers to lower cement options and actioning new strategies to overcome these.
Collaborator Contribution Technical knowledge, expertise, access to data
Impact Internal reports Studentship funding Community of Practice Leadership around cement reduction
Start Year 2019
 
Description Cambridge University Structures Seminar (Forsdyke) - Tailored concrete for durability 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact A presentation on the importance of durability and how concrete can be tailored to save CO2 and meet desired durability requirements encouraged debate amongst participants and knowledge exchange.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Cambridge Zero Research Symposium (Forsdyke) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact The presentation encouraged reflection on the CO2 impact of concrete and awareness of need for cement reduction.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://www.zero.cam.ac.uk/cambridge-zero-research-symposia-2021
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop Feb 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop July 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop July 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Workshop with Costain Materials Community and presentations by Cloud Cycle and HS2. Discussion around procurement was also very informative for participants.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop March 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop March 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop May 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop May 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The in-person workshop with representatives from Costain, Cambridge, Hanson and the Concrete Centre provided a high-level forum for horixzon scanning, knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshop provided invaluable feedback that is being translated into further collaborations and strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop Nov 2020 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop Oct 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop Sept 2020 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular workshops with Costain and representatives from their supply chain are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The workshops provide invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop Sept 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Cambridge presentation/discussion of Sustainable Digital Concrete findings led to formation of advocacy/working groups to take forward actions.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/Costain London Workshop for knowledge exchange 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The workshop explored Cambridge's latest research findings, Costain's business priorities and collaborative directions for impact.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Cambridge/Laing O'Rourke Discussion of Decarbonising Precast Concrete Manufacturing - Oct 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Knowledge exchange and review of strategic directions for decarbonisation strategies
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/National Highways/Banager Precast Meeting - February 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The meeting between Banager Precast Concrete, National Highways and Cambridge explored the capabilities and interests of Banager Precast. Challenges facing National Highways and recent Cambridge research findings were discussed as the basis for future collaboration.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Meeting March 2019 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Meeting Sept 2020 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop - Jan 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop Dec 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop Feb 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop Jan 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop June 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop June 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop March 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop May 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Cambridge/SOM Workshop Oct 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Regular meetings/workshops with SOM designers are providing a forum for knowledge exchange and research dissemination. The meetings/workshops provide Invaluable feedback that is informing strategies for the incorporation of innovations into industry practice.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Concrete Sustainable Design Workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Online workshop with Costain design team members to establish what the driving factors are for specification of specific concrete mixes or concrete properties when these are influenced by the structural design. This lead to lots of discussion, and was followed by another workshop reporting back findings to a larger working group of Costain and CIRG members.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Discussion facilitator for Net Zero/Net Negative Infrastructure Session at CSIC Industry Strategy Event (JML) - March 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact My role was to facilitate discussion around Net Zero/Net Negative Infrastructure.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description EPSRC Blog (Lees) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact The purpose was to write a blog for the general public to highlight my research and thoughts on creativity and engineering in light of 2018 being the Year of Engineering. A particular topic was inspiring the next generation and interesting examples from our EPSRC CDT in Future Infrastructure and Built Environment student-led activity and personal thoughts were shared.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/blog/creativityandconcrete/
 
Description Engagement with University of Cambridge Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP) Fellow - Dec 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact CSaP creates opportunities for public policy professionals and academics to learn from each other. Priorities identified by the CSaP Fellow were discussed and connections made between emerging research findings and future directions for concrete usage and CO2 reduction.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Engagement with University of Cambridge Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP) Fellow - March 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact CSaP creates opportunities for public policy professionals and academics to learn from each other. Priorities identified by the CSaP Fellow were discussed and connections made between emerging research findings and future directions for environmental sustainability, the role of technology and material innovation.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Hosting of Professor Evan Bentz from University of Toronto - June 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Professor Bentz met with our research group and discussed emerging findings and collaboration opportunities. Professor Bentz also presented a Structures Seminar at the University of Cambridge on aspects of his research.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Hosting/meeting with National Highways in Cambridge - Nov 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Knowledge exchange and presentation and discussion of research findings related to tailored reinforced concrete infrastructure and sustainable digital concrete.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Industry/Academia Workshop for knowledge exchange - University of Cambridge, University of Toronto, Queen's University, Highways England and Atkins 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact A workshop to showcase emerging University of Cambridge research findings relating to the lifetime extension of existing infrastructure and carbon efficient concrete, recent advances at the University of Toronto and Queen's University in the context of reinforced concrete infrastructure and structural health monitoring, and the latest challenges, findings and developments from the perspectives of Highways England and Atkins was an excellent platform for knowledge exchange and further collaboration.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Instagram Profile for Cambridge University Women in Engineering Society International Women in Engineering Day Feature (JML) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact University of Cambridge Student-led initiative to help raise awareness of the amazing work women engineers do and to inspire prospective fellow women engineers and Professor Lees was asked to provide a profile.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description LafargeHolcim Zero Carbon Hackathon 17-19 November 2019 (Gimenez Fernandez and Forsdyke) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Members of the research team participated in a Hackathon to come up with novel lower carbon concrete solutions.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/news/zero-carbon-hackathon-encourages-students-rethink-material-use-constru...
 
Description Member of FPCC Scientific Committee (JML) - 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact As a member of the International Scientific Committee I reviewed papers to help ensure the technical quality of the Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites in Construction Conference held in Sept 2022.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.fpcc-conference.com/scientificcommittee
 
Description Panel Chair (Lees) for EPSRC IKC Cambridge Centre for Smart Infrastructure & Construction Industry Strategy Day, Dec 2018 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact As a result of the panel sessions, industry partners have engaged and expressed a commitment in supporting research projects related to ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete and also the mitigation of the environmental impact of concrete. These will now be developed further in collaboration with the EPSRC IKC Cambridge Centre for Smart Infrastructure & Construction.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Participation in Jacobs Asset Health Sprint - Measuring and Monitoring Asset Health at Northumbria Water Innovation Festival July 2022 (JML) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Lees was invited to join a 'sprint' at the Northumbrian Water Innovation Festival. The aim of the sprint was to identify current best practice and determine and prioritise areas where the water sector should concentrate effort in order to better understand aspects of infrastructure asset health.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Pecca Kucha Presentation on Concrete Thermal Properties (MGF) at CSIC Industry Partner Strategy Day - Sept 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Showcasing of emerging research findings for predictive tools for concrete thermal behaviour. This led to questions and interest from the audience who stated that the approach had great potential and wished to follow the progress and outcomes.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Podcast interview about the environmental sustainability of concrete and concrete structures 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Michele has been invited to participate in a podcast named 'Parole in Connessione' (Italian) [Words in Connection] on an episode about cities, sustainability, construction and transports. He has been interviewed by an academic from TU Delft on the topic of structural safety, concrete sustainability, circular economy and the reduction of the environmental footprint of infrastructure through lifetime extension.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://open.spotify.com/episode/4imMtWf17Cz36Cit7dGGR2
 
Description Preseantation at Second fib Italy YMG Symposium on Concrete and Concrete Structures 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Presentation delived to conference attendees at the Second fib Italy YMG Symposium on Concrete and Concrete Structures, Rome, 18th-19th November 2021.

The presentation summarised the work in the conference paper "Carbonation depth measurement of concretes exposed to different curing and preconditioning conditions, using image-processing tools".

There were questions following the presentation, both in person and submitted to the author by email to be adressed afterwards.

The presentation and conference paper recieved an award for "Best research advances in concrete and concrete structures" at the conference.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://fibitaliayoung.it/index.php/2021/12/20/symposium-2021-vincitori-awards/
 
Description Presentation (Brault) - Cambridge University Structures Research Seminar 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Dr Andre Brault gave a presentation entitled: Connecting the dots: the power of using distributed sensors to monitor structural behaviour
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Presentation (Gimenez Fernandez) - Cambridge University Structures Seminar 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Mar Gimenez Fernandez presented her latest research on Tailored Reinforced Concrete.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Presentation (Lees) during Cambridge University Engineer's Association Alumni Festival 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Presentation to Cambridge Engineering Alumni - the discussion reflected an increased awareness of the environmental impact of concrete and the latest research development
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Presentation (Torelli) - Cambridge University Structures Seminar November 2019, Cambridge, UK. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Dr Torelli gave a presentation on the main outputs of his recent research.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Presentation (Torelli) - International Conference "2nd International RILEM Conference - Rheology and processing of construction materials (RheoCon2) 9th International RILEM Symposium - Self-compacting concrete (SCC9)" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Dr Torelli gave a presentation on the analytical aspects of the work.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL https://www.rheocon2019.org/
 
Description Presentation (Torelli) - International Conference "IABSE Symposium 2019 Guimarães - Towards a Resilient Build Environment - Risk and Asset Management" March 2019, Guimarães, Portugal 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Dr Torelli gave a presentation on the project's main outputs, focusing on the experimental aspects of the work.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL https://www.iabse.org/IABSE/Documents/Guimaraes2019_FP.aspx
 
Description Presentation (Torelli) - Sheffield University Structural Engineering Seminars. March 2020, Sheffield, UK. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Dr Torelli gave a presentation on the main outputs of his recent research.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Presentation (Torelli) to high school students in Montepulciano, Italy 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Dr Torelli gave a presentation on his own career path, and professional career choices more generally, to an audience of high school students from his home town.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL http://www.sito.liceipoliziani.com/possibilita-di-crescita-professionale-allestero-7-gennaio-2019/
 
Description Presentation at 2nd fib Italy YMG Symposium on Concrete and Concrete Structures, Rome, Italy 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Presentation by a team member (Mak) on 'Effectiveness of arch behaviour in reinforced concrete beams subjected to shear' during 2nd fib Italy YMG Symposium on Concrete and Concrete Structures, Rome, Italy
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://www.cirg.eng.cam.ac.uk/news/award-cirg-member-fib-conference-rome
 
Description Presentation at Research Club series, Chair of Structural Concrete, Institute of Structural Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Presentation by a team member (Mak) on 'The Shear Paradox' for the Research Club series of the Chair of Structural Concrete, Institute of Structural Engineering, TU Wien, Vienna, Austria.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Presentation at fib Symposium 2021: Concrete Structures: New Trends for Eco-Efficiency and Performance 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Presentation delived to conference attendees at the fib Symposium, Lisbon (online), 14th - 16th June 2021. The presentation summarised the work in the conference paper "An analysis of existing models for carbonation coefficient applied to tests under natural conditions". There was a question and answer session following the presentation, with questions posed by virtual atendees and the chairpeople of the conference session.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://www.fib-international.org/publications/fib-proceedings/i-fib-i-symposium-in-lisbon,-portugal...
 
Description Presentation at the Structures Group Seminar, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Presentation by a team member (Mak) on 'The Shear Paradox' at the seminar series of the Strucures Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Presentation to CSIC Achieving Net Zero Cross-Industry Group - May 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Professor Lees made a presentation on - Hard Concrete Problems - Ownership and Action - to help support and inform the work of the Cross-Industry Group
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Research presentations at launch of University of Cambridge Civil Engineering Building (UKCRIC NRFIS) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Lees described the facilities and examples of research activity facilitated in Cambridge's new state-of-the-art concrete manufacturing and durability laboratories.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description St Catharine's college Engineering Society presentation (Forsdyke) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact A presentation to the undergraduates, postrgraduates and academics studying Engineering at St Catharine's college. The presentation was titled "Using Image Processing and Analysis in Concrete Research" and focussed on the use of image processing techniques to give more information than traditional measurement methods. There was good engagement from the students and siginicant discussion following the presentation about the interdisciplinary nature of research.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description St Catharine's college Engineering Society presentation (Forsdyke) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact An online presentation to the undergraduates, postrgraduates and academics at St Catharine's college. The presentation was titled "Improving Cement Efficiency in Concrete Elements" and described the problems of cement use in terms of embodied carbon, and the concept of tailored elements to improve this. There was good engagement from the students and siginicant discussion following the presentation.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description St Catharine's college Graduates and Fellows research seminars (Forsdyke) 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Jess Forsdyke gave a presentation entitled: "What's so hard about concrete?" to postgraduate students and academic fellows. This lead to interesting questions afterwards.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Tailored Concrete Infrastructure Workshop - University of Cambridge, University of Toronto and Queen's University 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Cambridge research findings relating to tailored concrete infrastructure were discussed with international collaborators
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Temporary Works as a Route to Accelerate Carbon Reduction - Cambridge/Costain Digital Sustainable Concrete Workshop Nov 2022 - Thames Tideway 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Presentations by Costain/Cambridge and Supply Chain partners provided a platform for discussion and identification for actions to reduce carbon impact of temporary works.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Workshop for University of Cambridge EPSRC FIBE2 CDT MRes Students - March 2021 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact A session on 'Resilient concrete infrastructure with minimal cement' covered challenges, latest developments in concrete manufacturing and innovation and how research related to tailored reinforced concrete infrastructure offers routes for cement reduction. An interactive workshop encourages participants to reflect on the connection between cement usage and performance requirements.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Workshop for University of Cambridge EPSRC FIBE2 CDT MRes Students - March 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact A session on 'Resilient concrete infrastructure with minimal cement' covered challenges, latest developments in concrete manufacturing and innovation and how research related to tailored reinforced concrete infrastructure offers routes for cement reduction. An interactive workshop encourages participants to reflect on the connection between cement usage and performance requirements.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Zero Carbon World Materials Mapping Workshop (i3P) - Aug 2020 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Mapping of innovation strategies to promote lower carbon systems and materials.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Zero Carbon World Research Findings Review (i3P) - Sept 2020 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The ambition was to identify, catalogue and classify the different carbon innovation projects across the sector; by understanding what innovation programmes are taking place now, we will be able to provide insight on any critical gaps. The output of the project will be a prioritized innovation map, and a set of strategic project briefs to be explored further in subsequent phases.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020