Guest Lecture: Concrete Technology and Advanced Materials
October 29, 2025
The Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Civil, Planning, and Geo Engineering, welcomed Ms. Annika Gram from KTH Sweden for a guest lecture titled “Concrete Technology and Advanced Materials.” The session explored innovative approaches in modern concrete design, emphasizing both technical performance and environmental sustainability.
Guest Lecture Ms. Annika Gram from KTH Sweden
Ms. Gram discussed how the optimization of raw materials and the use of supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of concrete production. She also highlighted the potential of recycled aggregates, renewable fuels, and carbon capture technologies in promoting sustainable construction practices.
The lecture introduced students to the rheology of concrete—the science of material flow and deformation—which is essential for understanding workability in different concrete mixes. Tools such as the slump flow test, L-box, and viscometer were explained to illustrate how yield stress and plastic viscosity influence concrete behavior.
Guest Lecture Ms. Annika Gram from KTH Sweden
In addition, Ms. Gram presented the evolution of Roman concrete, showing how ancient materials like volcanic ash inspired today’s sustainable concrete technologies. The discussion extended to nano-engineered materials and high-performance concrete, which enhance strength and durability through advanced particle packing and the use of superplasticizers.
Through this session, students gained deeper insight into how modern concrete technology integrates science, innovation, and environmental responsibility to build a more sustainable future.