Sustainable construction materials with integrated upcycling of waste materials and carbon sequestration

Location of Research: On Site

Professor Shiho Kawashima (CEEM) is currently seeking BS and/or MS students to do research in her lab for 3 credits of Independent Study this upcoming fall semester (with potential extension into the spring semester and summer). The overall aim of this project is to develop more sustainable concretes through replacing carbon-intensive Portland cement with silicas, carbonates, hydroxides, etc. derived from waste and carbon mineralization. Students will test the impact of these cement alternatives on material development. Key properties of interest will be hydration kinetics and phase evolution, which will be characterized via isothermal calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. Additional performance testing may include mechanical and/or shrinkage testing. This project is in collaboration with Professor Ah-Hyung (Alissa) Park (EEE).

The student will primarily be working in Carleton Laboratory to run experiments, so all relevant safety training will be required. Deliverables will include regular progress updates and final report. The student will be closely advised and trained by a PhD student. No previous research experience is necessary - just enthusiasm for experimental materials research! The expected time commitment is 7.5 hour / week.

Anyone who is interested in learning more about the projects or has questions should contact Prof Kawashima directly at [email protected].

Lab: Kawashima Lab

Direct Supervisor: Shiho Kawashima

Position Dates: 9/8/2020 - 12/23/2020

Hours per Week: 7.5

Paid Position: No

Credit: Yes

Qualifications: Mechanics; basic materials science is a plus.

Eligibility: Junior, Senior, Master's (SEAS only)

Shiho Kawashima, [email protected]