Testing the World's Concrete
The University of Greenwich’s concrete testing service, known for ensuring the quality of products used in the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, has opened a new facility to test giant slabs.
The rig can test pieces of concrete up to 12 metres long and apply weights up to 600 Kilo-Newtons, the equivalent of 12 elephants. Only one other facility that big is known in the world.
Professor Chun Qing Li, who leads research and teaching in civil engineering at the university, says: “Bigger concrete slabs mean cheaper and quicker building, so this is of enormous interest to the construction industry. The new rig significantly enhances our capability in testing and consultancy, not just in Kent and the UK but internationally.”
The university is currently testing concrete being used in the new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) extension from King George V station to Woolwich Arsenal, connecting London City Airport with south-east London via a twin-bore tunnel under the Thames.
Andy Ellis, Project Director at AMEC, the construction company responsible for building the tunnel, says the university’s testing facility has been invaluable: “The contract specification requires many tests to be performed on the pre-cast concrete rings that line the tunnels. One test in particular requires us to prove the residual flexural strength (ability to withstand bending) of the concrete used, which is way beyond the capabilities of a "normal" site-based laboratory.
“The Structures Laboratory at the University of Greenwich has performed these tests for our contract on a commercial basis, utilising latest technology equipment and experienced technicians. The facility has proved invaluable to this contract.”
As well as assuring the quality of concrete, the university researches and develops new products for clients like market-leaders Propex, makers of materials to reinforce concrete. Professor Li says: “Concrete needs different kinds of reinforcement depending on its purpose. Flooring, for instance, needs consistent strength. It’s not sufficient to base it on a metal grid which a heavy item could punch through. Nylon fibre, and small pieces of metal, can be mixed in to ensure that every inch is reliable.”
And he says the university is meeting industry’s needs by coming up with products which are cheaper and more predictable. Giant engineering consultancy Atkins is investing £700,000 in the university’s civil engineering research and development programme because of its relevance to industry. Greenwich has 3,000 students studying for professional qualifications in engineering, architecture, building, surveying, design and allied occupations.
Professor Li, Atkins Chair of Civil Engineering, will be giving his inaugural lecture on Thursday, March 8, 2007. For more information or to reserve tickets visit "Inaugural Lecture Puts Civil Concerns at the Heart of Engineering"
For images, interviews and information contact:
Hester Brown
Press Officer
University of Greenwich
Tel: 020 8331 7663
hester.brown@gre.ac.uk