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This module will provide knowledge and understanding of the function of building and types of loads on structure, the role of concrete on its constituent materials, their properties and variables that affect fresh and hardened concrete.

Syllabus

This module will provide knowledge and understanding of the function of building and types of loads on structure, the role of concrete on its constituent materials, their properties and variables that affect fresh and hardened concrete.
Evaluate the key structural and durability properties of concrete and alternative construction materials in the context of high-rise buildings, using relevant British and international standards to justify material selection decisions.
Differentiate between major materials used in high-rise construction (such as normal-strength concrete, high-performance concrete, steel and composite systems) by comparing their mechanical, rheological and long-term performance characteristics under typical high-rise loading and environmental conditions.
Analyse the influence of concrete mix design parameters (including water–cement ratio, aggregate grading, admixtures and supplementary cementitious materials) on workability, strength development and durability for high-rise structural elements subjected to complex construction sequences.
Assess the constructability challenges associated with high-rise concrete works (such as pumping to great heights, formwork pressure, temperature control and shrinkage) by interpreting project scenarios and proposing feasible mitigation strategies.
Appraise the sustainability implications of different concrete and high-rise material options by quantifying their embodied carbon, resource consumption and potential for reuse or recycling within a given project brief.
Formulate a project-based response to an open-ended high-rise design challenge by defining performance criteria, selecting appropriate concrete and complementary materials, and justifying choices with reference to structural, durability and sustainability requirements.
Collaborate in small project teams to plan, allocate and integrate tasks related to material selection, basic structural checks and constructability review for a hypothetical high-rise building, using shared digital tools to coordinate work.
Interpret experimental or manufacturer data sheets for concrete and related materials by extracting key engineering properties and applying them to simplified design or checking calculations for high-rise structural components.
Develop and justify alternative material and detailing solutions for a problematic high-rise construction scenario (such as excessive cracking, deflection or durability concerns) by applying fundamental concrete behaviour principles and relevant codes of practice.
Critique peers’ project-based proposals for high-rise material selection and concrete specification by providing evidence-based feedback on structural adequacy, durability, constructability and sustainability, and suggesting targeted improvements.
Synthesize learning from weekly project activities into a concise technical presentation that explains the chosen high-rise material strategy, highlights key engineering trade-offs, and responds to questions from tutors and peers.
Prioritise essential civil engineering concepts and skills (such as stress–strain relationships, durability mechanisms and serviceability criteria) needed to address the course’s central high-rise design challenge, and document how these concepts inform final project decisions.