Development of eco-friendly silicate-based nanoparticles for sustainable concrete infrastructure

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Concrete production mainly relies on the consumption of Portland cement that is a huge CO2 emitter. In addition, harsh environmental conditions such as freezing and thawing cycles and the use of de-icing salts cause significant damage and repair cost to concrete infrastructure in Alberta. Development of eco-friendly and long-lasting concrete materials is therefore essentially needed to protect our planet, and to reduce the costs associated with repair and construction of civil engineering infrastructure. This project focuses on the development and design of naturally-derived silicate-based and easy-to-produce nanoparticles that are compatible with cement-based matrix. The nanoparticles will be carefully designed to meet the required properties such as surface chemistry, particle size and morphology for optimum functionality in concrete. Then, they will be integrated in the concrete mixtures in appropriate proportions to obtain strong and durable concrete, with less amount of Portland cement. The work will be conducted through close collaboration between Dr. Nassar, Professor of Chemical and Petroleum whose expertise is on nanoparticle development and characterization, and Dr. Khoshnazar, Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering whose expertise is on cement and concrete production, at the University of Calgary. This technology would revolutionize the cement and concrete industry through being environmentally sound, highly efficient, and cost effective. Highly qualified personnel will also be trained to solve "real world" problems related to construction industry and its environmental impacts.