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101-0658-00L 4 Credits MSC D-MATL , D-BAUG
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Concrete Material Science

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Robert J. Flatt, Dr. Timothy Wangler
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:08:30

Abstract

Concrete Material Science examines how concrete properties are affected by its microstructure and how its microstructure is controlled by processing and composition. To achieve this, the course comprises a comprehensive presentation of the different techniques used to characterize concrete and its constituents, both in research and construction practice.

Objective

In this course you will gain a thorough understanding of common techniques for characterizing engineering, microstructural, physical and chemical properties of concrete. You will learn how this knowledge can be used both in research and industrial environments. In practice, these techniques are used, for example, to evaluate new materials, diagnose causes of problems, determine responsibilities, handle reclaims or quality insurance as well as devise an experimental program in research and development. Throughout the course various references you will also learn about how concrete can be designed to have a reduced environmental impact and increased service life.

Content

Program: 1. Introduction to Concrete Material Science 2. Thermodynamic modeling of cement hydration and its industrial relevance. Dr. Thomas Matschei (Holcim Group Support) 3. Characterization techniques of cementitious materials I 4. Characterization techniques of cementitious materials II 5. Characterization techniques of cementitious materials III: Solid State NMR. Prof. Jean-Baptiste d'Espinose (ESPCI) 6. Fresh properties of concrete - Rheology 7. Chemical admixtures 8. Transport in porous media 9. Durability I 10. Alternative binders 11. Durability II - Alkali-Silica Reaction. Dr. Andreas Lehmann (EMPA) 12. Practical exercises I 13. Practical exercises II 14. Practical exercises III

Resources

Lecture Notes

Students will receive all obligatory literature in printed form.

Literature

Students will recieve all obligatory literature in printed form.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 20 minutes
Compulsory continuous performance assessment tasks (which do not need to be passed on their own): Participation to all the practical exercises is compulsory; 3 lab reports are mandatory.Final oral exam (20 minutes). The course will be graded to 70% with a final oral exam (exam session) and 30% from 3 lab reports (each equally weighted).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Concrete Material Science
  • Tue 09:45-11:30 (HIL F 10.3)
2 h weekly

Offered In