Doctorate in DocDual on the topic "Development and characterisation of alkali-activated mortars for concrete repair – Robustness and durability considerations".
Together with my practice partner, BAM, I am working on the PhD topic "Development and characterisation of alkali-activated mortars for concrete repair – robustness and durability considerations". Currently, approx. 8 % of the worldwide anthropogenic CO2 emissions can be attributed to cement production. The aim of the planned doctorate is to realise the repair of damaged concrete with a cement-free and correspondingly more sustainable alternative. For this purpose, industrial residual and secondary raw materials can be used and stimulated to a hardening reaction with alkaline activators. By optimising the properties via the composition of the starting materials, an alkaline activated mortar (AAM) is to be developed that meets the requirements of conventional repair products. In addition, the possibility of re-alkalising the carbonated concrete by applying the AAM will be evaluated. The test will be carried out on concrete test specimens conditioned with CO2. The bond to the concrete substrate and reinforcing steel is also indispensable for a durable repair. The bond is to be verified with optical and microstructural methods. Further investigations on freeze-thaw behaviour and acid resistance will serve as an outlook in order to cover the spectrum of possible areas of repair. For possible use in practice, it is planned to carry out and evaluate the application and testing of the AAM on a reference object.
My supervisor at the FH Potsdam is: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Klaus Pistol
My practical partner: Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM)