August 8-11, 2006

University of Florida, Hilton Hotel and Conference Center
Gainesville, Florida

General Information

     Cementitious and bituminous materials for infrastructure and roads, such as Portland cement concrete and asphalt, are on the verge of an explosion in complexity, with new materials being developed that use polymers, fibers, and other types of micro- and nano-modification to enhance strength, stiffness, durability, and impact properties. In spite of the fact that cementitious construction materials and bituminous pavement materials are mainly used on a large scale and in huge quantities, the mechanical behavior of these materials depends to a great extent on structural elements and phenomena which are effective on a micro- and nano-scale. Although distinctly different, Portland cement concrete and asphalt concrete share many similar characteristics in that they are both conglomerate composites composed of graded rock, cement, and additives. Consequently, scientific advancement in one area is likely to be of benefit to the other.

     The objective of the workshop is to bring together national and international researchers and practitioners with an interest in nanomodification of cementitious construction materials as well as bituminous pavement materials to develop a Roadmap for Research in this emerging area. This Roadmap for Research will be a White Paper that will be developed by the workshop Scientific Advisory Committee and posted on the workshop webpage.