Project/Earth Concretes

From Drexel Smart House

Currently Earth Cement work is being done by Aaron Sakulich, under the supervision of Dr. Barsoum. There are currently 4 student working, 3 of which will be working full time beginning on Jun 11th, 2007. It aims to reduce the cost of cement, as well as the environmental footprint.

Current Status

Currently work is being performed on the Red Paper, with work being complete on the Green and White papers. Both papers are currently unpublished, with the Green paper still being edited (Jun 7th, 2007). The Red paper is focusing on the use of plasticizers to extend pot-life, as well as to increase the percentage of slag reacted. The most critical issues with the green paper is the extremely short pot-life, crackage within the sample, as well as shrinkage.

Sub-Projects

There are currently 4 sub-projects planned, to be completed by each of the 4 students working under Aaron Sakulich. Currently only one project is assigned.

Coloring / Polishing

Kyle Yankanich is currently assigned to this project. Currently it is in the research stages. This project involves determining what causes the coloring effects of the current samples, and what coloring can be induced. Related to the coloring of the cement is the finish, or the surface. Polishing and veneers are being researched.