THRUST 1
Multi-Scale & Multi-Modal Characterization
Natural & artificial materials are complex and heterogenous across multiple scales. In order to characterize these systems, we are adopting a ‘multi-modal’ approach where multiple, complementary imaging techniques are used in combination for an enhanced and deeper understanding of any given material. With this approach, we are improving our understanding of a variety of materials such as clay minerals,1 rocks,2 and cements.3
1 Romero & Garg, Applied Clay Science 2022
2 Polavaram & Garg, Scientific Reports, 2021
3 Polavaram & Garg, Cement and Concrete Research, 2021
THRUST 2
Understanding Material Degradation & Repair
Almost all engineering materials are subject to long-term degradation, necessitating replacement and repair. We are investigating a variety of degradation phenomena for concrete: ranging from water ingress to radiation damage in nuclear power plants.1, 2 On the repair and mitigation side, we are exploring numerous options such as self-healing systems, ultra-high performance concrete systems, and superhydrophobic coatings.3
1 Baral et al, Cement and Concrete Research 2022
2 Cheniour et al, Materials and Structures 2022
3 Sharma & Garg, ACS Applied Engineering Materials 2023
THRUST 3
Low Carbon & Sustainable Construction Materials
Construction materials are an essential component of our physical infrastructure. However, when produced at a scale of billions of tons per year, these materials contribute to a significant carbon footprint. We are investigating novel recipes & AI-led routes to lower the carbon footprint of concrete, including solutions such as calcined clays, alkali-activated materials,1 and waste-to-energy ashes2 generated from combustion of municipal waste.3
1 Abdelrahman & Garg, Frontiers in Chemistry 2022
2 Kumar & Garg, Resources, Conservation, and Recycling 2022
3 Kumar & Garg, Environmental Research: Infra. & Sus.2021
Acknowledgement: To enable projects within & across these thrusts, we acknowledge support from various external funding agencies such as the US Department of Energy (DOE), Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), and Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E). We also thank our industry sponsors & partners as well as internal support units on the UIUC campus.