Research Theme: Multiscale Material Testing and Characterisation
We conduct a wide range of multiscale testing and observation work. We apply and develop technologies at various scales, from microscopic to full-scale field tests.
Our state-of-the-art multiscale testing covers a broad areas of expertise:
- from newly-developed bio-material characterisations
- to large-scale testing of rehabilitated structural members with innovative materials
Our work includes the development of test apparatus for a range of purposes, including:
- characterisation and analysis of structural textiles and polymeric composites
- measurement of thermal conductivity of soils and testing
- determination of pore pressures in glacial tills
We develop electrokinetic geosynthetics for applications in the field of waste dewatering. This ranges from sewage to tunnelling waste, in both laboratory-scale experiments and field trials.
We investigate development of living materials. These use engineered bacteria to sense pressure increases and respond by producing bio-cement. They could be used as a responsive soil improvement method which strengthens the ground when loaded.
We carry out further full-scale testing and validation from site data in the:
- study of the effects of climate change on slope stability
- study of fabric, textile and composite structures
- assessment of Green Infrastructure and Sustainable Drainage Systems
- assessment of structural performance design qualification from field observation of extreme events