We perform both fundamental research and application-oriented research (R&D) on cement-based building materials. With our work we aim at improving the sustainability of building materials. By studying alternative binder systems and concrete of improved durability, we aim at reducing the energy consumption and the CO2-emission.

At the Concrete / Construction Chemistry Laboratory, we use our competence in the fields of concrete technology (e.g., recycled aggregate concrete) and construction chemistry in national and international research project.

We act as consultants in all our scientific and technical fields as well as offering investigations and measurements on a service basis. Four our partners, we research and bring to being sound solutions in demanding areas. In all our activities, we remain independent and impartial.

Hydration

The main research focus “Modelling of cement hydration” deals with the parameters which influence the hydration of hydraulic binders. The composition of the solid and liquid phases during hydration is examined with a series of experimental methods and compared to the results of thermodynamic modelling.

The main research focus "Concrete admixtures" deals with the mechanisms of action of organic additives which are added in small quantities, at most a few percent in mass of cement, to mortar and concrete mixtures.

Sustainability

The main research focus "Damage mechanisms" deals with the interaction of cement-based materials with the environment. The ingress or loss of ions critically influences the stability and the durability of concrete. The mechanisms are examined based on the microstructure and on the transport processes. Solutions for the development of more resistant concrete are investigated.

The main research focus “Shrinkage” analyzes the causes of shrinkage-induced cracks in concrete, which may lead to a reduction of the durability. The goal is to develop concrete mixtures with reduced shrinkage-induced cracking and improved durability

As an important contribution to the sustainability of cementitious materials, alternative binder systems are investigated whose production involves less energy and a lower CO2 emission than Portland cement.

We provide advice and information about different aspects of cement and concrete. At the same time, thanks to our world-class laboratory infrastructure, we are able to perform all relevant measurements and tests. Here follows a list of investigations, which include research for third parties, damage case analyses, demanding measurements or material testing and analyses.

• Research into the relationship between raw materials, methods of production and utilisation, which are relevant for the practical application of new cementitious materials
• Transfer of knowledge by publication, courses organization and talks in national and international conferences
• In our large laboratory we can perform both standard tests and specially tailored ones
• The most modern chemical analysis methods and efficient microscopy investigations
• Fresh concrete controls
• Consulting about problems in the areas of concrete, mortar, cement and admixtures
• Cooperation in the elaboration of norms and guidelines within national and international professional organisations and standards committees

We are accredited in the following areas STS 338

Your contact

• Dr. Pietro Lura, head

Our address

• Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology
  Concrete / Construction Chemistry Laboratory

  Überlandstrasse 129
  CH-8600 Dübendorf
  T +41 58 765 44 02 (Sekretariat)
  T +41 58 765 55 11 (Switch board)
  F +41 58 765 40 35
  beton@empa.ch (concrete, damage case analyses)
  bauchemie@empa.ch (binding agent, admixture, mortar)