9313461 Wylie Materials research, in the context of Civil Engineering applications, is an essential subset of any modern, successful engineering program. The basic public works infrastructure in the United States is in need of massive upgrading. An important ingredient in the ultimate improvement of these facilities nationwide is the development, introduction, and implementation of new materials into the design and construction industry. The program at the University of Michigan is attempting to play a major role in this process. This award will make it possible for this institution to more efficiently utilize their current (4000 square feet) laboratory space in materials research through renovation of the facilities. Through massively reorganizing and upgrading these facilities, the materials research and graduate training will be made more effective. The facilities renovations will focus on the functions of processing, mechanical testing, and microstructural analysis in separate areas. This will enable researchers to operate independently and be productive in different functional activities, something that is impossible in the current laboratory environment. ***
