Research Unit Description
C-MADE, the Centre for Materials and Civil Engineering for Sustainability, is a collaborative effort between the University of Beira Interior (UBI), the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), the Higher Institute of Engineering – ISE of the University of Algarve (ISE UAlg), the Polytechnique Institute of Castelo Branco (IPCB), the Polytechnique Institute of Setubal (IPS) and the Polytechnique Institute of Viseu (IPV). This research hub is dedicated to spearheading innovations in civil engineering to pave the way for a sustainable future. It serves as a melting pot for ideas, where researchers from both Portuguese and international institutions unite to forge resilient and eco-friendly solutions to worldwide civil engineering challenges.
The centre boasts state-of-the-art research facilities equipped with the latest in materials science and civil engineering technology. These laboratories are instrumental in conducting pioneering research in waste transformation, materials analysis, and the creation of sustainable construction materials and solutions. Additionally, C-MADE places a strong emphasis on advanced water research, aiming to shield communities from flooding and efficiently manage water as an essential resource.
Strategic Goals
C-MADE is committed to several strategic objectives:
- Advancing Research and Innovation: Developing a cutting-edge research and innovation agenda that focuses on resilience and sustainable civil engineering. This includes integrating climate change mitigation strategies to produce solutions with global relevance.
- Attracting and Cultivating Talent: Drawing young, talented individuals to contribute to the scientific advancements in the Portuguese Interior. The goal is to create highly qualified scientific positions that underscore global sustainability and resilience in civil engineering.
- Strengthening Global Leadership: Enhancing C-MADE's role as a knowledge hub, broadening the research and innovation agenda to include scalable and replicable solutions in sustainable civil engineering.
Highlights of Achievements
- Innovative Materials Development: C-MADE researchers have successfully developed innovative materials that drastically reduce the construction industry's carbon footprint, thereby enhancing sustainable construction and environmental stewardship.
- Permeable Pavements: Research on double-layer porous Asphalt (DLPA) has significantly advanced our understanding and implementation of permeable pavements, which improve urban infrastructure and stormwater management.
- Agricultural Waste Valorisation: The team has explored the potential of agricultural waste for construction purposes and analysed varying water and energy consumption patterns, leading to the development of sustainable materials and efficient resource management.
- Hydraulic Engineering and Environmental Dynamics: Their research has yielded crucial insights into the interaction between human-made structures and natural hydraulic systems, fostering the design of sustainable hydraulic structures.
- Nature-Inspired Design: C-MADE's investigation into the architectural and material properties of Asian hornet nests has demonstrated the potential of nature-inspired design in creating sustainable building materials and structures.
Through these initiatives, C-MADE not only tackles local and global environmental challenges but also leads by example in promoting sustainable construction practices worldwide. The centre’s vision is to steer civil engineering towards a future where every project is anchored in sustainability and resilience, setting new standards in the field and enhancing global community well-being.
Scientific Coordinator: João Paulo de Castro Gomes
Calçada Fonte do Lameiro
6201-001 Covilhã
Phone +351 275 329 726 - National Phone Call
UNIDADE INTEGRADA
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uBibliorum | Coleção do C-MADE | Centre of Materials and Building Technologies