Class Construction Materials

The Construction Materials course focuses on the study of the properties, behavior, and application of materials used in civil engineering works, such as concrete, steel, wood, ceramics, and polymers. This subject is crucial for Civil Engineering students, providing them with the necessary knowledge to select and properly use materials, ensuring the durability, safety, and sustainability of structures. This course is integrated into the Civil Engineering curriculum by offering a solid foundation for understanding the interactions between materials and construction systems and how these interactions affect building performance.

Not applicable

Introduction to Construction Materials Classification, general properties, and importance in Civil Engineering. Concrete and Aggregates Composition, mechanical properties, durability, and concrete technology. Types of aggregates and their characteristics. Steel and Metallic Materials Mechanical properties, corrosion, protection, and application in structures. Manufacturing processes and quality standards. Wood and Plant-Based Materials Structure, properties, treatments, and applications. Sustainability and environmental impact. Ceramics and Glass Physical characteristics, strength, and application in coatings and insulation. Polymers and Composite Materials Types of polymers, properties, and uses in modern construction. Polymer matrix composites, advantages, and disadvantages. Sustainability and Innovation in Construction Materials Eco-efficient materials, recycling, and emerging technologies.

Laboratory Sessions: Students will conduct practical experiments to test material properties, providing hands-on, active learning experiences. Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Solving real-world engineering problems, encouraging the practical application of acquired knowledge. Technical Visits: Visits to construction sites and material manufacturing plants to observe the use and production of various materials. Group Projects: Development of projects involving the selection and application of materials in real construction scenarios.

Manso, M. (2024). Apontamentos da UC de Materiais de Construção, Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa. Simões, Alda; Diogo, António; et al. Ciência e Engenharia dos Materiais de Construção, Colecção Ensino da Ciência e da Tecnologia, IST Press,, 2012. ISBN: 978-989-8481-17-7. Sousa Coutinho, A. Fabrico e Propriedades do Betão, Volume 1, 2 e 3, LNEC, 2012