Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 February 2011
The goal of this research is to improve the physical properties, mechanical properties and durability of cement-based materials by controlling chemistry and processing to produce the desired microstructures and properties. An accompanying initiative is to establish the basic scientific understanding relating processing and microstructure with physical and mechanical behavior, for the future development of new, special purpose, high performance cement-based materials. The research involves both experimentation and theory elucidating fundamental strengthening mechanisms for materials such as warm-pressed, MDF, DSP, polymer, and fiber composites. SEM and computer image analysis were used. Of interest are creating process models that serve as a basis for real applications such as in the following areas: High-performance highway concrete, and the immobilization of radioactive waste.