Development of a new generation cement free and self-sensing Textile-Reinforced Smart Mortar (TRSM) composite for masonry repair and strengthening

The proposal aims to create a durable, eco-friendly, cement-free, and self-sensing composite called Textile-Reinforced Smart Mortar (TRSM) to strengthen masonry and cultural heritage structures. TRSM will use natural textile fabrics embedded in lime mortar with electrically conductive carbon microfibers (CMF) to enhance mechanical strength and enable strain measurement and damage detection. The project begins with developing carbon microfiber lime (CMFL) mortar and progresses to creating TRSMs, assessing their durability under different environmental conditions, and examining their mechanical strength and piezoresistivity. The final phase involves thoroughly testing the durability and self-sensing capabilities of TRSM-strengthened masonry panels. This research aims to bridge laboratory advancements and practical industry applications, especially crucial given the risks from climate change and earthquakes. The project will help preserve cultural heritage structures and enable preventive maintenance. The fellow will join an experienced research team, gaining valuable training and broadening their research opportunities, thus advancing their scientific career.

Impact

Expected scientific impacts. The project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of smart and sustainable mortar and durable TRSM composites in reinforcing masonry and historical structures through precise experiments. It will measure parameters such as ultimate strength, durability, and self-sensing to provide quantitative estimations of the project's impact. The assessments will advance our understanding of structural engineering and material science and support future research and development, fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations.
Expected economic impacts. The project aims to introduce cost-effective solutions by demonstrating the practicality of TRSM composites in strengthening masonry and historic structures. Global Market Insights predicts significant market potential for CMFL and TRSM materials due to expected growth in the dry mix mortar market.
Expected societal impacts. This project supports the EU's goal of creating a resource-efficient, green, and low-carbon economy by using cement-free TRSM composites to reduce CO2 emissions. It also aligns with the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and aims to have a lasting societal impact by providing a sustainable solution for reinforcing structures.