PhD in materials sciences (M/F) – Optimization of Cementitious Materials through Mechano-Activation of Clays: Study of Microstructural Modifications

Topic description

Population and urban growth are driving increasing concrete consumption in the construction sector, resulting in significant cement production responsible for 7% of global CO₂ emissions (Czigler et al., ). A global plan for the concrete and cement sector has led to the definition of a roadmap toward carbon neutrality by (GCCA, ). Decarbonization is a major challenge for the cement industry, with the objective of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 90% by , corresponding to a reduction of 10.6 MtCO₂e. According to a report by the United Nations Environment Programme (Scrivener et al., ), partial substitution of clinker in cement is the most promising short-term approach, particularly through two technologies: low-CO₂ supplementary cementitious materials and limestone fillers. While some supplementary materials have been well known and used for several decades, their availability is insufficient, and the use of new alternative materials mu...