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PhD Research on Low-Carbon Concrete Technologies Using Emerging Supplementary Cementitious Materials

McMaster University Department of Civil Engineering
✓ Fully Funded 🎓 Civil Engineering 🎓 Environmental Engineering 🎓 Materials Science durability testing low-carbon concrete supplementary cementitious materials sustainable construction cement technology microstructural analysis lifecycle analysis CO2 mineralization

Explore the development of sustainable low-carbon concrete technologies using emerging supplementary cementitious materials. Engage in cutting-edge research to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in construction and support the move toward net-zero infrastructure.

AI-generated overview

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Why This Research Matters

This research addresses the critical environmental challenge posed by the concrete industry, which is a large contributor to greenhouse gas emissions globally. By advancing low-carbon concrete technologies, the project supports sustainable infrastructure development, reduces the carbon footprint of construction materials, and aligns with national and global climate goals.

Infrastructure Sustainability Resilience

Project Description

Project Overview

This research initiative focuses on developing advanced low-carbon concrete technologies by exploring and validating alternative supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) as traditional SCMs become less available. The project addresses the challenge of reducing the carbon footprint of concrete while maintaining performance and durability for Canadian infrastructure.

What You Will Do

  • Investigate low-carbon concrete formulations with high SCM content
  • Conduct raw material characterization and CO2-mineralization studies
  • Perform microstructural analysis and assess mechanical and durability performance
  • Carry out lifecycle analyses to evaluate environmental impacts
  • Translate laboratory findings into field applications
  • Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences

Expected Outcomes

Advance high-SCM concrete technologies aligned with sustainable construction efforts, influence industry standards, inform public policy, and set new benchmarks for environmentally friendly construction worldwide.

Why This Matters

Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally and a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Developing sustainable alternatives is critical to mitigating climate change while ensuring infrastructure resilience.

Entry Requirements

PhD Applicants: Completed master's degree by September 2026 in civil engineering or a related field; strong interest in concrete technology and sustainability; familiarity with cementitious materials characterization is desirable. Postdoctoral Applicants: PhD in civil engineering or related discipline; expertise in cementitious materials and experimental testing techniques; knowledge of life cycle assessment; strong publication record.

How to Apply

PhD applicants should refer to the official advertisement for application details. Postdoctoral applicants should apply via the McMaster University job portal under the listing “POST DOCTORATE FELLOW – Civil Engineering – 75290”.

Eligibility

UK/Home
EU
International

Supervisor Profile

OH
Ousmane Hisseine
McMaster University, Department of Civil Engineering

Key Publications

2019 203 citations
Nanocellulose for improved concrete performance: A macro-to-micro investigation for disclosing the effects of cellulose filaments on strength of cement systems
2021 168 citations
Valorization of recycled FRP materials from wind turbine blades in concrete
2018 142 citations
Influence of cellulose filaments on cement paste and concrete
2020 140 citations
Nano-engineered ultra-high performance concrete for controlled autogenous shrinkage using nanocellulose
2018 107 citations
Feasibility of using cellulose filaments as a viscosity modifying agent in self-consolidating concrete

Research Contributions

Nanocellulose and cellulose filaments improve concrete performance and strength by modifying microstructure and shrinkage properties.
This enables the development of higher strength and more durable cementitious systems relevant for construction materials.
Recycled fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials from wind turbine blades can be valorized and used in concrete applications.
This supports sustainable materials recycling and reduces environmental impact of wind turbine blade waste.
Nano-engineering of ultra-high performance concrete via cellulose improves control of autogenous shrinkage and mechanical properties.
Improved ultra-high performance concrete has applications in critical infrastructure requiring enhanced durability and performance.
Use of cellulose filaments as viscosity modifying agents facilitates the production of self-consolidating concrete with improved workability.
This advances concrete technologies by enabling easier placement and compaction, reducing labor and defects.

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