Resilient and Sustainable Infrastructure (RSI) Research Group
Welcome to the webpage of the RSI Research Group at IIT Jodhpur!!
Concrete Columns under Santa Monica Pier (Wikimedia Commons)
Why study concrete?
In a rapidly urbanizing world, the importance of concrete as a building material cannot be overstated. Concrete is the second most consumed material globally, with an annual consumption of nearly 30 billion tons, behind water. Concrete is produced by mixing cement, water and aggregates in required proportions, making Portland Cement arguably one of the greatest inventions of the modern century.
Challenges
Concrete is the primary building material of the world. However, there are some challenges associated with concrete like -
Portland cement production is one of the significant contributors to the global CO2 emissions. It is imperative to identify sustainable Portland cement alternatives.
Optimising the concrete compositions to suit the local needs.
The long-term durability of reinforced concrete structures is a significant concern. Our understanding of the deterioration mechanisms of concrete is still limited.
Repair and Rehabilitation of existing structures.
Safe handling and disposal of construction and demolition wastes
Deteriorated Concrete (Image Credit - Boaz Arad, CC-BY-2)
Concrete Placement at Folsom Dam (USACE HQ, Public Domain)
Vision
To understand various aspects of cement and concrete science, ranging from the mechanics of cement hydration to the durability issues in concrete.
To collaborate, identify and solve problems relevant to the Indian construction sector.