Dr. Eoin Coakley of Coventry University completed his PhD (in Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh) in February 2009. This project investigated the patch repair of continuous reinforced concreate beams, examining specimen behaviour with a portion of the tension reinforcement exposed and also subsequent to application of the repair material.

Eoin is currently working on an EPSRC funded project investigating the use of high volumes of fly ash as a cement replacement within concreate. This project is focussing specifically on using waste materials such as gypsum and cement kiln dust (CKD) to activate fly ash, thereby increasing early age strength and reducing setting times. Some promising results have been seen so far, particularly for use as a self-compacting concrete (taking advantage of the high cohesion of HVFA concrete mixes).

Area of Expertise:

Structural repairs to reinforced concrete, properties of concrete containing cement replacement materials, self-compacting concrete.

My research into concrete repairs looks to explore means of maintaining structure functionality while the repair is being carried out and establishing clear criteria where the expense and inconvenience of propping can be avoided. My research into use of cement replacement materials is motivated by reduction in CO2 emissions associated with cement manufacture and use of existing waste by-products.