By lyndamyer
In order to advancing the research into the use of steel slag in cement and concrete, the US Department of Transportation (US DOT) has announced a US$5m funding opportunity.
With aim of decreasing carbon emissions associated with extracting and manufacturing construction materials, in this project US DOT will collaborate with a producer of steel in the US and an accredited research university of higher education.
At this year’s Transportation Research Board annual meeting, US transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg participated in the New Materials for Infrastructure: Reinventing the Roadway, Runway, and Railway panel discussion. There, Buttigieg stressed the importance of steering innovation towards public good.
“We’re proud to make this funding available to help develop the next generation of construction materials so that the future of our transportation infrastructure is more resilient, more sustainable, and made in America,” said Buttigieg.
The funding is due to support one co-operative agreement in the total amount of US$5m over five years, subject to availability of funds.
According to Dr Robert C Hampshire, deputy assistant secretary for research and technology and chief science officer: “This funding initiative will develop and advance innovative materials and technologies that support the nation’s goals to decarbonise the transportation sector by 2050, strengthen resilience of the nation’s transportation infrastructure, and address adverse environmental impacts created by the transportation system.”
A single accredited university in partnership with a steel producer will receive the entire funding amount based on a competitive bidding process.
