Reactive-transport modeling in cementitious materials
Coupling transport and chemical reactions to represent multi-species processes in porous media, including cement systems with complex chemistry and evolving pore solution conditions. This includes developing and applying a COMSOL–GEMS reactive-transport interface linking finite-element transport with thermodynamic equilibrium calculations, enabling realistic multi-phase chemistry and extended Nernst–Planck transport behavior in cement systems.
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Thermodynamic modeling for cement chemistry
Thermodynamic equilibrium modeling to interpret chemical speciation, phase stability, pore solution composition, and binding mechanisms in cementitious systems. Work includes coupling thermodynamics with hydration models to understand SCM influence on phase assemblages, porosity, chloride binding, and durability-relevant transport.
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Corrosion initiation mechanisms in reinforced concrete
Research on localized electrochemical conditions that control passive film stability at the steel–concrete interface, including modeling mill scale crevices using extended Nernst–Planck and Poisson formulations to show how localized pH and Cl⁻/OH⁻ conditions promote depassivation, along with studies on passive film electronic properties.
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Hydration, heat, and mass transport coupling
Integrated modeling of hydration kinetics, heat generation, and mass transport to interpret evolving phase assemblages, pore structure, and water distribution during early-age behavior, linking thermodynamics and transport to durability performance.
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