Development of high temperature experimental methods for validation of novel concrete constitutive models for nuclear applications

Deep understanding of the mechanical behaviour of cementitious materials is crucial for both a reliable assessment of existing structures and an efficient design of future infrastructure. This project will investigate the damage evolution in concrete mixes with various material compositions subjected to thermal and/or mechanical loads. The research will include detailed experimental and numerical investigations of the structural behaviour of concrete in the context of resilience and resistance to mechanical and environmental loadings. Specifically, small- and medium-scale mechanical tests will be performed within the University of Sheffield structures laboratories. This will involve multiaxial compression test on concrete cubes subjected to varying temperature and bending/shear tests on structural elements. Analytical and numerical models will also be developed using open-source finite element software.