Development of advanced materials for restoration of modern period heritage buildings

Abstract

The development of sustainable construction materials is crucial for restoration and retrofitting modern period heritage including industrial heritage buildings (IHB) while minimising environmental impact. This research focuses on Ultra- High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) incorporating sustainable binders made of low-clinker cements, natural pozzolans, and other supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), as well as amorphous alloy fibres to enhance durability and PROGRAMME & ABSTRACTS Wednesday 28 May 2025 University of Malta Research Expo 2025 139 mechanical performance. Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are embedded within the UHPC matrix to improve thermal performance and energy efficiency, reducing operational carbon footprints. Additionally, Textile Reinforced Mortar (TRM) with Alkali-Resistant (AR) glass meshes are employed as a robust and durable solution for retrofitting, addressing the specific structural challenges of modern period heritage preservation. A significant aspect of this study is the recycling of artificially aged UHPC, repurposing it as both binder and aggregate. This approach aligns with circular construction principles, reducing waste and supporting resource efficiency. The recycled UHPC’s mechanical and durability characteristics are evaluated to ensure its suitability in applications. The novel materials developed in this research aim to address the specific needs of IHB, including enhanced durability, compatibility with existing structures, thermal efficiency, authenticity, and reduced environmental impact. By integrating UHPC and TRM, and the proposed approach offers a tailored solution that combines advanced material performance with sustainable retrofitting practices, preserving structural integrity, cultural significance, and historical authenticity. The research is conducted at the Faculty for the Built Environment, within the framework of the HORIZON Europe Research Project SINCERE – The second life of modern period architecture: Resilient and adaptive renovation towards net-zero carbon heritage buildings.