Building Materials Lab

The lab supports innovation in sustainable, smart, and high-performance building materials, and is capable of tests ranging from high-temperature processing and environmental curing to multi-aspect rheological characterisation.

The lab contains the following state-of-the-art equipment:

• Confocal Raman Microscope (CRM) with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) add-on: The state-of-the-art CRM with integrated AFM add-on enables advanced materials characterisation by combining high-resolution chemical imaging with nanoscale topography.

• Rheometer: The state-of-the-art rheometer is equipped with versatile accessories to characterise the rheological behaviour of materials under diverse conditions, including elevated temperatures and UV exposure.

• Ultrasonic Measuring System: The highly precise 8-channel ultrasonic measuring system enables non-destructive measurement of hardening evolution and consistency changes of a broad range of materials, customised more for building materials such as cement-based mortar, plaster and flooring systems, CO₂ reduced binders.

• Electrical Impedance Analyser: The analyser offers the potential for advanced electrical impedance spectroscopy and tomography for different materials and applications, such as anomaly/object detection and material and structural health monitoring.

• Facilities for versatile activation of minerals: The lab operates a high-temperature vertical tube furnace capable of reaching up to 1800 °C, designed for precise thermal treatments. The system enables rapid quenching of materials and offers controlled treatment environments.