![Ahmad Alhamdan BASc, MASc](https://profiles-cardiff.imgix.net/attachments/3487?w=200&h=200&auto=format&crop=faces&fit=crop&q=90")
Overview
I am a Structural Engineer currently pursuing a PhD in Civil and Material Engineering at Cardiff University. As part of the Resilient Structures and Construction Materials (RESCOM) group, my research is centered around the development of sustainable concrete solutions, particularly in challenging environments.
My work involves replacing traditional cement with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) and incorporating recycled and thermoset plastics as substitutes for conventional aggregates. Additionally, I focus on testing the durability and performance of these materials under harsh marine conditions, aiming to ensure that sustainable concrete solutions can withstand aggressive environments while reducing environmental impact.
By integrating structural engineering principles with advanced material science, I am dedicated to creating resilient, low-carbon concrete that not only enhances durability but also promotes sustainability in construction, especially in demanding settings such as marine environments.
Research
Previous Research:
During my Master's studies, I focused on gaining a deeper understanding of the shrinkage behavior of alkali-activated binders, commonly known as geopolymers, under various exposure conditions. My research explored how different preparation methods whether one-part or two-part systems affected the shrinkage behavior of alkali-activated mortars. Additionally, I evaluated the effectiveness of conventional shrinkage mitigation techniques when applied to these materials. Furthermore, I investigated how varying exposure conditions influenced both the efficiency and underlying mechanisms of the applied shrinkage mitigation techniques, providing insights into optimizing performance in practical applications.
Current Research:
Given the high carbon footprint of ordinary Portland cement concrete, my current research focuses on developing a novel concrete mix design that incorporates waste plastics as partial aggregate replacement and uses supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to reduce reliance on traditional cement. This combined strategy aims to significantly lower the overall carbon footprint of concrete. Additionally, I am conducting durability testing to better understand the behavior of low-carbon concrete under various degradation cycles, ensuring that these sustainable alternatives maintain durability and performance in different environmental conditions.
Teaching
I lead tutorials, conduct lab demonstrations, and handle grading for the following courses:
- EN2400: Structural Analysis and Design
- EN3302: Structural Analysis
- EN3311: Concrete Materials and Structures
Contact Details
Queen's Buildings - South Building, Room S/0.45, 5 The Parade, Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 3AA
Research themes
Specialisms
- Low carbon design
- Waste management, reduction, reuse and recycling
- Polymers and plastics
- Cement and Concrete Science
- Life cycle assessment