Confirmation of Candidature - Candidate : Ashiqul Islam

The usage of sandwich panels continues to grow as construction industries and other sectors recognise their benefits, such as energy efficiency, lightweight, insulation, and design versatility. While sandwich panels have a number of advantages in construction, they are primarily associated with problems related to carbon emissions. In the manufacturing of panel materials, energy-intensive processes are employed, causing emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere. Using sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials in sandwich panel production and construction can reduce their carbon footprint.

In this study, an investigation will be conducted to determine the low carbon emission materials to prepare the novel sandwich panels for potential use as constructure materials. The structural behaviour of the novel sandwich panels will be studied by preforming three-point bending test. The durability test of the skin of sandwich panels will be investigated in different environmental conditions such as water, hygrothermal, highly concentrated saline water, elevated as well as normal temperature. The outcomes of this study will provide a good understanding of the mechanical and durability behaviour of the novel sandwich panels.

The comparison of carbon emissions between existing and proposed sandwich panels will contribute significantly to the advancement of our understanding of sustainability and environmental impacts. A simplified carbon emission calculator will be developed in this study, and the calculation method will assist researchers and end users in estimating carbon emissions from specific construction materials. The overall result of the study will give a deep understanding regarding the structural performance of proposed sandwich panels and leverage construction industry to sort out an alternative panel which is strongly aligned with Australia's vision of net zero carbon emission plan 2050.

For more information, please email the Graduate Research School or phone 0746 311088.