Development of Recovered Fly Ash and Ternary Cements for Low Carbon Concrete Infrastructure

This fully funded industry/Scottish Research Partnership in Engineering project aims to develop practical and economic low carbon concrete. The research will utilise state-of-the-art material characterisation and durability techniques, providing the engineering science, to support the commercial application of recovered stockpile fly ash and ternary cement combinations. The project combines expertise from Dundee and Aberdeen Universities in concrete construction and cement chemistry, with the specialist knowledge of the UK Quality Ash Association and leading international cement, GGBS and admixture suppliers.

The project offers candidates an exceptional opportunity to directly engage with major industry sectors and to develop an in-depth understanding of design standards, supply chain logistics, construction processes and service life requirements, while satisfying the absolute need for sustainability.

Initial research will gather information and analyse supply chain data for material sourcing and, based on UK relevant cement combinations, develop mixes for low carbon concrete that can be utilised across the range of BS8500 exposure classes. Critical rheometric parameters and heat development will be evaluated. Alongside these, microstructural analyses will determine the progress of cementitious and pozzolanic reactions between various cements/additions to ascertain the most effective for different civil and structural engineering applications.

A range of structural mechanics properties will be measured including load and load-independent strains, as well as early, standard and long-term strength. A critical part of the study will be to determine the durability of the concretes and will specifically address reinforcement passivity/corrosion, carbonation, chloride ingress/binding, sulfate attack and freeze-thaw damage. 

The project outcomes can contribute to Standards developments, covering construction related issues, design, material selection and durability. Guidance for designers/specifiers and concrete producers will be developed and disseminated to interested parties.

Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first class/2.1 degree or an appropriate Master’s level qualification in civil engineering, chemistry, materials science or similar cogent subject. Experience with cement and concrete technology is particularly sought. 

In the first instance applicants are invited to send on a cover letter and CV expressing their interest by email to [Email Address Removed] and [Email Address Removed], prior to formal application.