Evaluating the Fire Performance of Alternative Cementitious Material (ACM)-Based Concrete for Sustainable and Resilient Construction

Summary

Concrete is a widely used construction material due to its versatility, availability, low cost, strength, and durability. With growing population and urbanisation, demand for concrete is rising steadily.

The main binder in concrete is Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), which accounts for roughly 45% of concrete costs but has significant environmental impacts.

Cement manufacturing is responsible for an estimated 5–8% of global man-made CO₂ emissions.

To reduce these impacts, Alternative Cementitious Materials (ACMs) such as Alkali Activated Binders (AAB), Calcium Sulfoaluminate (CSA), Calcium Aluminate Cement (CAC), Pulverised Fly Ash (PFA), Metakaolin (MK), Silica Fume (SF), and others are being explored for use in buildings, bridges, and pavements.

Most studies on ACM-based concrete have focused on ambient temperature performance, while their behaviour at elevated temperatures remains under-investigated.

This proposed PhD project aims to study the response of ACM concrete under fire conditions and develop solutions to improve its performance. Proven ACM concrete mixes from prior research will be tested for mechanical durability and microstructural properties using techniques such as TGA, FTIR, and SEM.

The study will then examine the fire response of concrete cubes and structural elements constructed with ACMs, including hollow-core slabs, wall panels or insulated wall panels.

The results from these investigations will be compared with the fire response of cubes and structural elements prepared and constructed with conventional concrete for comparison.

The research outcomes will provide a deeper understanding of ACM concrete behaviour under elevated temperatures and inform strategies to enhance fire resilience.

By promoting the use of low-carbon materials, this project supports sustainable construction and reduces construction-related CO₂ emissions.

Its findings will benefit the global design, manufacturing, and construction industries by advancing green building practices and encouraging longer-lasting, environmentally responsible concrete structures.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 (approximately) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home candidates, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.