This Center, in association with the University of Illinois, Purdue University, the University of Michigan, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, undertakes multidisciplinary interactive research, as well as broadly based education, outreach, and knowledge transfer activities. The research focuses on developing a fundamental understanding of cement-based materials and the complex relationships among cement chemistry, microstructure, processing, micromechanics and engineering properties, and exploiting knowledge gained to design high performance cement-based materials with superior properties for use in advanced materials structures and systems. These goals require an interdisciplinary, multi-institutional and well coordinated research team, with expertise in cement chemistry, fracture mechanics, surface science, electrical engineering, computer simulation and modeling, and materials science and engineering. The educational and outreach activities include a pre-college enrichment program for high school science and math teachers, a five week summer program for high school students, and summer research experience for undergraduates. Knowledge transfer is effected through research symposia, international research personnel exchange and research collaboration, the Industrial Affiliates Program, active participation in the Illinois Technology Challenge Program, and publications in appropriate technical journals. This Center is directed by Professor Surendra P. Shah.
