In the Construction Materials track, you'll learn to choose, develop, and manufacture cutting-edge materials for structural and civil projects. Your goal? To build a more sustainable and resilient world. You'll explore and engineer innovations like 3D-printed concrete, concrete recycling, and even repurposing entire structures.
You will study material behaviour using advanced experimental and computational techniques, with a focus on interface properties in composite systems. Additionally, you will explore new construction methods and structural applications, gaining valuable laboratory experience in material testing at both nano and macro scales.
Key features
➨ The technical performance of materials under variable environmental conditions. ➨ The degradation mechanisms. ➨ The effect of ageing in durability and the sustainability aspects.
Track Curriculum
Track base module: Fundamentals of Construction Materials
All students begin the Track Construction Materials in Q2 with the Fundamentals of Construction Materials (CIEM 1000). The module spans till the end of Q3 and covers topics like the science of construction materials, fracture mechanics, and materials selection and technology. You’ll complete lab work, field studies, and interactive exercises, preparing you to analyse material properties, predict failures, and make informed decisions based on sustainability and performance criteria.
A-Module
In Q3, you also start your A-module: Measuring and Modelling Construction Material Behaviour (CIEM 1110). This module equips you with skills in experimental characterization and numerical modelling of construction materials, preparing you for advanced testing, analysis, and advising on structural material performance.
B-Module
In Q4, you choose your B-module, allowing you to further specialise with the field. There are two B-modules you can choose from.
You will gain in-depth knowledge of construction materials' behaviour, degradation, and durability. Through lectures, practicals, workshops, and work in computer labs, you’ll explore topics such as material properties, degradation mechanisms, service life design, repair strategies, imposed deformations, and constitutive modelling.
This module focuses on smart, self-healing, composite, bio-based, and emerging materials, including 3D printing and recycling. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, lab practicals, and industrial visits.
I really enjoyed working in the lab. We tested the electrode potential of various metals, determined corrosion rates, completed tensile stress tests and tested the viscosity of bitumen, which we modified ourselves.
You will have a multitude of opportunities for your master’s thesis. Below are just a few highlighted projects of previous students. Prep for the master thesis starts in Q6 after completing the electives and cross-over section of the general programme in Q5.
Student Experiences
Our students always have a lot of stories to tell about their projects, internships, research and life as a student! They discover, collaborate and create solutions for society. Learn more about their experiences below!
