Background Cement plays a vital role in the stabilization and enhancement of civil infrastructure performance, including foundations, pavement layers, bridges, pipelines, and dams. Its curing process, driven by water through cement hydration, is essential for developing concrete's strength and durability. However, in cold climates, the inherent...

Background Removal and immobilization of metal leachates from various compounds (industrial waste, mine tailings, waste engine oil, etc.) used in construction and the built environment is critical. Specifically, the use of mine tailing in construction of roadway base and sub-base could lead to leaching of metals to surface and ground water. In response...

Background U.S. wood-constructed housing stock accounts for 750 million tons of sequestered carbon and can reduce CO2 emissions by replacing energy intensive materials including cement and steel. Currently popular manufactured woods such as oriented strand board (OSB) and cross laminated timber (CLT) have low durability and require adhesives that are...

Background Asphalt binder is used as an adhesive to hold aggregate materials together to form bituminous composites used in roads, airports, bridge decks, and roofs. The organic nature of binder makes it susceptible to chemical aging during its service life in outdoor settings. The chemical aging of binder is thought to be a result of irreversible...

Background Asphalt binder is organic in nature, which increases its susceptibility to oxidative aging during its service life in outdoor settings. Oxidative aging is one of the critical factors contributing to the deterioration of asphalt’s mechanical properties and performance. Additionally, asphalt-paved surfaces have been reported as an important...

­Algae growth commonly occurs on materials, such as building materials, and can lead to staining of the material and a decrease in the material’s durability. This can be a particular problem in areas with warm, wet climates. In a specific scenario, algae growth on roof shingles results in visible black stains affecting roof aesthetics and...