MARS 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 develop a durable, eco-friendly, cement-free, and self-sensing composite for strengthening masonry and cultural heritage structures. The composite, called Textile-Reinforced Smart Mortar (TRSM), will consist of natural textile fabrics embedded in a lime mortar containing electrically conductive carbon microfibers (CMF). TRSM enhances masonry's mechanical strength, while CMF enhances the composite's piezoresistive properties for strain measurement and damage detection.

The project commences with the innovative development of carbon microfiber lime (CMFL) mortar, a smart solution designed to maximize performance with masonry substrates. Subsequent phases include developing TRSMs, evaluating the durability of CMFL and TRSMs under varying environmental conditions, and studying the influence of these conditions on mechanical strength and piezoresistivity.

The culmination of the research involves a comprehensive exploration of the durability and piezoresistive performance of advanced TRSM-strengthened masonry panels. This endeavour bridges the divide between laboratory progress and practical industry application by combining innovative materials with self-sensing technology.

The use of TRSM enhances the structural integrity of masonry and cultural heritage structures. It also enables the real-time monitoring of strain and potential damage, allowing the planning and execution of preventive instead of essential maintenance. Given increasing climate change and earthquake risks, the project is timely and has the potential to have a significant impact on preserving cultural heritage.

To achieve the project's objectives, the fellow will join a research team with extensive expertise in bridging micro-technology, materials, and composite engineering to structural engineering. This partnership will broaden the fellow's research opportunities. The fellow will also gain versatile training, paving the way for a successful scientific career in this field.