About Project

The Indian and the UK construction industry faces unprecedented challenges in the 21st century, with environmental sustainability, resource depletion, etc. This research proposed for the Indian and the UK construction market is a paradigm shift towards a circular economy in construction, focusing on the synergistic integration of nanotechnology, plastics, and additive manufacturing to advance the development of sustainable concrete and circularity. Exploring nanomaterials, such as nano-silica and graphene, offers traditional concrete mixes enhanced durability and mechanical/electrical properties. Concurrently, incorporating recycled plastics as a partial replacement for depleting conventional fine aggregates in India mitigates the environmental impact of plastic waste in both countries and contributes to reducing carbon emissions associated with concrete production. Additionally, additive manufacturing techniques, mainly 3D printing, present a transformative approach to construction by optimising material usage and enabling intricate designs. The project aims to bring together academic experts from both countries to merge the interdisciplinary relationship of materials engineering/nanotechnology, advanced digital systems, environmental/social studies, and robotics additive manufacturing (AM) to create an innovative circular construction ecosystem. The investigation encompasses laboratory-scale demonstration, developing training materials to inform postgraduate studies, and workshops/conferences for the stakeholders in both countries. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable development, providing a roadmap for stakeholders in the construction industry to embrace innovative practices that align with the principles of a circular economy.

This project presents a collaborative effort to equip postgraduate students in the UK and India with the research skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable advancements in concrete. By proposing three main objectives: 

i. Curriculum Development: A comprehensive, multidisciplinary teaching and learning resource will be designed for postgraduate students, integrating nanotechnology, plastics, and additive manufacturing within the framework of circular economy principles. This curriculum will bridge theoretical and practical knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of research methodologies and their application to sustainable concrete development. 

ii. Research Skills Enhancement: Targeted training workshops and mentorship opportunities will be provided for 8 UK and 8 Indian masters students, equipping them with the skills to conduct impactful research in circular economy applied to sustainable concrete. This will empower them to effectively contribute to multidisciplinary research teams and address real-world challenges in the construction industry. 

iii. Center of Excellence Establishment: A dedicated centre of excellence will be established to create a lasting impact. This centre will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, promoting collaborative research practices among UK and Indian institutions, industries, and stakeholders. It will facilitate meaningful engagement, fostering innovation and accelerating the adoption of circular economy principles in the concrete industry across both nations. 

By combining these elements, this project has the potential to make a significant contribution to the development of sustainable concrete practices, promoting a more circular and environmentally responsible construction sector in both the UK and India.