Testing the world's concrete
The university’s concrete testing service now operates a facility for testing 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.
Our academics say: “Bigger concrete slabs mean cheaper and quicker building, so this is of enormous interest to the construction industry. The rig significantly enhances our capability in testing and consultancy, not just in Kent and the UK but internationally.”
The School of Engineering, known for ensuring the quality of products used in the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, also tested the concrete used in the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) extension, which connects London City Airport with south-east London via a twin-bore tunnel under the Thames.
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. Concrete needs different kinds of reinforcement depending on its purpose. Flooring, for instance, needs consistent strength; it is 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. 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.