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Module Catalogue

ES2F2-15 Construction Materials

Department
School of Engineering
Level
Undergraduate Level 1
Module leader
Justin Russell
Credit value
15
Module duration
24 weeks
Assessment
100% coursework
Study location
University of Warwick main campus, Coventry

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Introductory description

ES2F2-15 Construction Materials

Module web page

Module aims

The aims of the module are to introduce students to a range of materials (concrete, steel, timber, masonry, asphalt, fibre reinforced polymers and strawbale/rammed earth) in terms of structural behaviour, analysis and design within the context of sustainable construction. Primarily focusing on concrete the module will provide knowledge and understanding on its constituent materials, their properties and those of fresh and hardened concrete. Variables that affect these properties in the short and long term will be identified. Furthermore, this module will focus on the impact of the production and use of materials for civil engineering on global carbon emissions and on how such emissions can be reduced in different ways including reusing/repurposing where possible, contributing to a more sustainable development and reducing waste by saving primary resources.

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Introduction to construction materials (with links to durability, sustainability, H&S, construction)
Timber for construction: Properties and applications.
Concrete Constitutions

  • Types of Cement: Classification, Manufacture, Properties and Uses
  • Aggregates and admixtures
    Testing of concrete: Fresh, hardened, NDT
    Structural Steel: properties, production and sustainability
    Introduction to Structural Glass, Masonry, Fibre Reinforced Polymers, Asphalt, and strawbale/rammed earth
    Durability of Materials
    End of life, life extension and reusing/repurposing of materials.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

  • Appreciate the sustainability and ethical issues and latest regulatory framework surrounding the production, use, management, disposal and reuse of materials to minimise the impact of carbon emissions. [C4(M), C7(M), C8(D)]
  • Critically evaluate the structural behaviour of a range of civil engineering materials including concrete, steel, timber, masonry and fibre reinforced polymers.[C4(M), C7(M)]
  • Analyse the effects of material and process variables on the mechanical properties and durability of concrete. [C12(M), C13(M)]
  • Cast, de-mould, cure and test concrete samples to assess the property and quality of concrete. [C9(D), C12(M), C13(M)]
  • Reflect on engagement upon practice to provide insight that enhances own work-based learning.

Indicative reading list

Domone, P. and Illston J. (Eds.), Construction Materials: Their Nature and Behaviour, 4th Ed., Spon Press, Abingdon, Oxon, New York, 2010.
Neville, A. M., Concrete Technology, 2nd Ed., Prentice Hall, 2010.
Internet based sites (such as MPA and UK government) for up-to-date sources on sustainable cements and concretes.

Subject specific skills

Knowledge and understanding of the need for a high level of professional and ethical conduct in engineering and the use of technical literature, other information sources including appropriate codes of practice and industry standards
Ability to apply relevant practical and laboratory skills

Transferable skills

Communicate (written and oral; to technical and non-technical audiences) and work with others
Appreciation of the global dimensions of engineering, commerce and communication
Plan self-learning and improve performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD

Study time

Type Required
Lectures 17 sessions of 1 hour (11%)
Seminars 3 sessions of 1 hour (2%)
Demonstrations 4 sessions of 1 hour (3%)
Other activity 12 hours (8%)
Private study 114 hours (76%)
Total 150 hours

Private study description

114 hours of guided independent learning (including VLE use and support from Employer)

Other activity description

10 hours of webinars

Costs

No further costs have been identified for this module.

You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.

Assessment group A4
Weighting Study time Eligible for self-certification
Assessment component
Poster on Lab Activities 30% Yes (extension)

Poster on Lab Activities, Individual
Reassessment component is the same
Assessment component
Written Report 70% Yes (extension)

Written Report (maximum 10 pages length)
Reassessment component is the same
Feedback on assessment

Poster and written report: Individual oral and written comments.

Courses

This module is Core for:

  • DESA-H221 Undergraduate Civil and Infrastructure Engineering (Non-integrated Degree Apprenticeship)
    • Year 2 of H221 Civil and Infrastructure Engineering (Degree Apprenticeship)
    • Year 2 of H221 Civil and Infrastructure Engineering (Degree Apprenticeship)