Issue No 2, August

Abstract

As the issue of global climate change is becoming a crucial problem for global security, Japan government is heavily
engaged to address the problem by promoting the programme “Cool Earth 50” which includes two key items:
one is “Low Carbon Society”, and the other is “Eco-innovation”. Eco-innovation includes the material innovation
for alternative energy system, such as photovoltaic, fuel cell, advanced nuclear technology etc. Following the
Eco-innovation, roadmap on various innovative technologies are investigated. Based on these roadmaps, METI
(Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) made “Cool Earth-Innovative Energy Technology Program”, and picked
up 21 technologies to be prioritized at 5 march 2008. In May 2008, CSTP(Council for Science and Technology
Policy), whose chair is the prime minister, made up a general plan named “Environment and Energy Innovation
Plan” which covers from short term to long term innovations. While these eco-innovations are very important,
they also increase the risk on material supply. It is predicted several times of amount of metals will be required
comparing their reserves in mine. The General Plan of Environmental Protection added TMR (Total Material
Requirement), which indicate the total amount of material through life-cycle including the great amount of mining
waste, as a environmental indicator. And, a new project preparing for material supply risk in a near future has
been launched by the cooperative support of METI and MEXT(Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science
and Technology). The name of the project is “Elements Science and Technology Project” which aims dramatic
reduction of material amount per function, and development of alternative material into abundant ones.

Abstract

Small-angle neutron scattering measures the physical structure of materials in the 0.01-1000 nm range. lt yìelds the surface area, pore - size distribution, and the fractal dimensions (mass and surface) of the material over this size range. This technique is being used to study the durability of historic masonry made with pozzolanic mortars. Also brick and mortar deterioration processes caused by soluble salts or freeze - thaw damage are under investigation.

Abstract

We present experimental results on the irreversible moisture expansion of the Spanish structural ceramics. Twenty representative commercial products have been analysed. The results of three of the tests applied are presented: long-term natural expansion tests (carried out during a time span of two years), accelerated autoclave (at 10 atm) and boiling water tests. The data are used to determine the magnitude of the expansion and the behaviour of ceramics with different compositions. Correlation among various natural expansion tests and accelerated tests are studied. The reliability of the accelerated tests as a measure of the moisture expansion is discussed. The experimental set-up and the accuracy of the data are described.

Abstract

During the last few years a considerable research on the behaviour of masonry structures has been experienced mainly on the experimental testing of bricks, mortar and brickwork. In this paper attention has been focused on some problems arising from a great deal of tests carried out on bricks removed from ancient buildings. The testing experienced on both ancient and new bricks has pointed out either some analogies and differences in the mechanical behaviour of such samples due mostly to the different manufacturing techniques used. The results obtained showed that the most appropriate mechanical characteristics and the testing process to be used shouldn’t be the classical ones. lt urges then the necessity of individualizing new and  more appropriate parameters in order to represent some aspects of inelasticity.

Abstract

The precast components industry today aims to fully satisfy the designer’s adaptation of the production to different requirements. The facing of precast components with ceramic is a very interesting solution under consideration and some little achievements have been accepted with pleasure by the market. For this application it is now necessary to go deeply into the scientific and productive knowledge. This work presents the actual results of research in progress into the microstructure of support and ceramic covering and mechanics properties. The research is constantly related to the real industrial aspects and the experience of which we speak refers to the operational control of production and time in the production of complete panels for and industrial building.

Abstract

In the analysis of existing adobe constructions, the existence of a mixed composite building system with green and fired bricks has been evidenced. In the aim of evaluating the mechanical properties of such heterogeneous masonry material, simple-compression tests were carried out on 1:4 scale models so as to evaluate the effect of insertion of fired bricks within green brickwork panel. Results of these experiments are reported which point out the effect of this insertion on both mechanical characteristics and fracture pattern.

Abstract

By 2030, some 70% of the global population - five billion people will be living in cities - compared to 50% today. This development is not only taking place in developed countries, but also in emerging economies and especially in India and China. Such urbanization requires the construction of infrastructure for water and sewerage systems, hospitals and schools, railways and roads, as well as housing. The demand for construction materials in general and for cement in particular will increase considerably. It is estimated that the consumption of cement will double or even triple in the coming decades. Relevant aspects related to some major challenges the cement industry will have to face in the medium term to preserve energy and environment are presented.