Research in Materials and Structures

The research program comprehends theoretical and experimental research in the field of building materials and structures. Research is oriented both to the properties of new and existing materials and structures. Special attention is paid to decay processes and retrofitting technologies. Research in materials is oriented to strength, toughness and ductility increase by modification of mineral materials (mortars, concrete, masonry) by polymers or other mineral or metal materials (glass and steel fibres). Materials are tested with dynamic loading when exposed to both normal and elevated temperatures. The activities in the field of earthquake engineering are oriented to development of computational models for inelastic analysis of reinforced concrete and masonry structures. Application of fibre reinforce plastic materials in repair and strengthening of buildings and development of highly resistant structural components are the recent topic of interest. Development of earthquake resistant timber frame structures will potentially bring the new generation of multi-storey buildings of this kind to Slovenian market. Monitoring of alternation of indoors climatic conditions and mitigation of humidity impact to wall paintings and other building fabrics of cultural monuments is activity that rounds out the research program. The research results are permanently transferred to Slovenian building practice through number of expertise and through cooperation with Technological center GI ZRMK. It links together more than 40 Slovenian construction companies and industry of building materials. The knowledge gained within the research program is also exchanged and implemented in other countries through the international projects with academic and industrial partners from Europe and USA. The network of partners is created by EUREKA and COST in Europe and by cooperation with CUREE (Californian Universities of Earthquake Engineering) and University of Colorado in Boulder, USA.