Researchers from the University of Cambridge have developed a method to produce very low-emission concrete at scale – an innovation that could be transformative for the transition to net zero.
Cambridge researchers, working in partnership with industry, have helped develop the first 3D-printed piece of concrete infrastructure to be used on a National Highways project.
Michelle Oyen (Department of Engineering) discusses how we could reduce our dependence on "dirty" materials like steel and concrete.
Roads that self-repair, bridges filled with first-aid bubbles, buildings with arteries… not some futuristic fantasy but a very real possibility with ‘smart’ concrete.
From the kaleidoscopic swirl of a neural network, to ribbons of crystals unfolding like sheets of wrapping paper, to the relief on the faces of villagers in Malawi after their local well was repaired, the breadth of engineering research at the University of Cambridge is reflected in the images produced by the winners of this year’s Department of Engineering photo competition.
The construction industry could slash its carbon emissions by as much as 50% by optimising the design of new buildings, which currently use double the amount of steel and concrete required by safety codes.
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