Platforms - Research Centres IMT Nord Europe

The Advanced Processes and Civil Engineering platform – currently being developed – concerns research activities targeting implementation processes for geo-sourced (from mineral resources) and bio-sourced (from biomass of plant or animal origin) building materials. There is a specific focus on developing the mix designs and studying the physico-mechanical properties of concretes made from plant aggregates. These properties are dependent on the compaction process used when the concrete is in its fresh state based on the intended application (e.g. filler, precast products). The formulation processes (e.g. plant fibres, various mineral fillers, influence of mixing) used to produce these materials, which store atmospheric carbon, can also be improved to target certain macroscopic properties. The plant materials are derived primarily from agriculture or forestry and the mineral resources are generally part of a circular economy approach.

3D printing is also being developed for the precast industry.

Using an approach similar to those used for other materials/applications, one of the objectives is to reduce the environmental impact associated with the use of cement and natural sand in mortar production. This involves, for example, the using recycled concrete sands and, more generally, optimising shapes.