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The production of waste glass in China was more than 20 million tonnes, but the current recycling rate was only around 30%. How to recycle this glass was a problem that urgently needed to be solved. This study used green glass and TFT-LCD glass to replace manufactured sand in 20%, 40%, 60% and 80%. Different proportions of mixed sand were composed to prepare cement-based specimens to investigate the effect of varying waste glass on the strength and pore structure of the cement-based materials through the mechanical test, porosity and water absorption test, resistivity test, mercury intrusion porosimetry. Finally, the hydration products generated in the interfacial transition zone were observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to explain the mechanism of the action of waste glass on cement-based materials containing manufactured sands. The test results showed that adding the two types of glass sands reduced the flowability of the cement-based materials while adversely affecting the flexural strength of the cement-based materials. The compressive strength reached the optimum at 20% substitution, higher than the compressive strength of river sand and manufactured sand groups. From the SEM observations, the specimen mixed with 20% glass sand generated more types of hydration products than the manufactured sand group at three days and optimized the pore structures. At 28 days, the compressive strength of GG20 specimens was 8% higher than that of the RS group. Therefore, the replacement amount of GG up to 20% had optimum admixture.

This article’s aim is to analyze physical, mechanical, and fracture properties as well as the thermal investigation of geopolymer composites reinforced with flax, glass fiber, and also the hybrid combination of fibers. Two types of matrices were considered as composites matrices. The first composition was based on fly ash and river sand. The second matrix composition contained fly ash and glass spheres. The content of reinforcement was 1% by mass. Compressive strength and three-point bending fracture tests were performed. The values of fracture toughness and fracture energy were determined. The resonance method was used to verify the dynamic characteristics, such as the dynamic modulus of elasticity and the dynamic Poisson ratio. The results show that single-type fibers in composites based on fly ash and glass spheres did not affect compressive strength. However, introducing hybrid reinforcement increased compressive strength by about 10% compared to the reference specimens. Flax fibers and hybrid reinforcement ensured higher fracture toughness and energy. The results also revealed great potential for glass sphere application to geopolymer materials in terms of fracture mechanics and thermal properties. Despite the lower strength properties in relation to geopolymers based on sand aggregate, applying reinforced fibers into the composite with glass spheres enhanced the compressive strength compared to other materials. Materials modified with glass spheres have a thermal conductivity twice as low as that of materials containing river sand.

Currently, virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technologies are becoming more and more widely used in various fields of human activity, including archeology. The aim of this article is to analyze the possibilities of using VR and AR technologies in broadly understood activities related to underwater archeology. This work is a review and presents current applications of VR and AR in underwater archeology based on case studies. This paper presents the development of VR and AR technologies, including in the field of underwater archaeology, and generally describes the process of creating VR and AR applications for underwater archeology purposes, with particular emphasis on data collection methods. Then, the areas of application of these technologies in underwater archeology and related areas were generally presented and the barriers to their use were discussed. The most important part of the work is a discussion of the use of VR and AR in underwater archeology based on the selected case studies. The article ends with a summary of the current state and a discussion of the possibilities of developing virtual technologies in the applications of underwater archeology.

The use of fly ash in compositions as a substitute for a part of cement is economically favorable and ecologically feasible in connection with large accumulations of waste at the enterprises of the energy sector. In addition, the technology of cement production provides high-temperature treatment of mineral substances in kilns with significant emissions of carbon dioxide. One of the most effective directions of the utilization of fly ash is their use in concrete composites. The use of this material will provide the required temperature and humidity conditions in residential premises, solve the problem of “cold bridges” in structures, minimize heat losses of the structure, and increase the energy efficiency of buildings in general. At the same time, polystyrene concrete, due to its structural structure and the presence of thermally conductive concrete, has limited opportunities for thermal and physical–mechanical properties. To improve the operational properties of polystyrene concrete, it is proposed to use composite binders, including fly ash from the thermal power station of Astana. The main aim of this study is to develop compositions of polystyrene concrete with reduced thermal conductivity and improved physical and mechanical properties. The objectives of this study include the determination of characteristics of fly ash from Astana, formulation of polystyrene concrete mixtures with different proportions of fly ash, and evaluation of their thermal conductivity properties. These tasks are in line with the objectives of the ISO 50001 standard to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The results showed that the addition of fly ash from Astana to polystyrene concrete leads to a marked reduction in thermal conductivity, contributing to improved energy efficiency of the building envelope. Optimal results were achieved by using 15% of Astana fly ash as an additive in polystyrene concrete, which led to a significant reduction in thermal conductivity of 51.47%. This reduction is in line with improving the energy efficiency of building materials, especially in cold climates.

Geopolymers based on fly ash are an emerging alternative to ordinary Portland cement, with a low impact on the environment and a potential to increase the sustainability of the concrete-based construction. Reported here is the design and investigation of new wood fiber reinforced geopolymer composites (WFRGC) based on fly ash and wood fiber (5–35 wt%). These WFRGC showed reduced mechanical properties with rising wood fiber addition as calculated by compressive strength with the cylindrical test (7.83–59.82 MPa); compressive strength at cubic test (6.95–50.23 MPa); force load at upper yield (0.70–5.02 KN); flexural strength (1.71–11.05 MPa); compressive modulus at cubic test (0.13–054 GPa); and flexural modulus (3.91–1293.61 MPa). The adding of wood fiber showed decreases of the density WFRGC (1.58–1.87 g/cm3) and decreases the thermal conductivity of WFRGC. The addition 20 wt% wood fiber could be the limit for acceptable mechanical properties. WFRGC with 20–35 wt% wood fibers may be a promising green material for building.

The composite of a phase change material (PCM) and bitumen or asphalt as a matrix is expected as a new, advanced material for road construction. The main motivation for this article was to show the new possibilities and perspectives of developing the pavement with the usage of PCMs. Incorporating PCMs into paving materials can improve their properties, including allowing the regulation of the pavement temperature, enhancement of the pavement durability, and avoiding the phenomenon of a heat-island on the road. The main purpose of this article was to evaluate contemporary investigations in the area of the application of PCMs in pavement materials, especially asphalt and bitumen; to summarize the advantages and disadvantages of the implementation of PCM for road construction; and to discuss further trends in this area. This manuscript explored the state of the art in this area based on research in the literature. It shows the possible material solutions, presenting their composition and discussing their key properties and the manufacturing technologies used. The possibilities for further implementations are considered, especially economic issues.

Additive manufacturing (AM), commonly named 3D printing, is a promising technology for many applications. It is the most viable option for widespread use in automated construction processes, especially for harsh environments such as underwater. Some contemporary applications of this technology have been tested in underwater environments, but there are still a number of problems to be solved. This study focuses on the current development of 3D printing technology for underwater applications, including the required improvements in the technology itself, as well as new materials. Information about underwater applications involving part fabrication via AM is also provided. The article is based on a literature review that is supplemented by case studies of practical applications. The main findings show that the usage of additive manufacturing in underwater applications can bring a number of advantages—for instance, increasing work safety, limiting the environmental burden, and high efficiency. Currently, only a few prototype applications for this technology have been developed. However, underwater additive manufacturing is a promising tool to develop new, effective applications on a larger scale. The technology itself, as well as the materials used, still require development and optimization.

This comprehensive review investigates the potential of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) as a highly effective adsorbent for organic dye degradation. Al2O3 emerges as a promising solution to address environmental challenges associated with dye discharge due to its solid ceramic composition, robust mechanical properties, expansive surface area, and exceptional resistance to environmental degradation. The paper meticulously examines recent advancements in Al2O3-based materials, emphasizing their efficacy in both organic dye degradation and adsorption. Offering a nuanced understanding of Al2O3’s pivotal role in environmental remediation, this review provides a valuable synthesis of the latest research developments in the field of dye degradation. It serves as an insightful resource, emphasizing the significant potential of aluminum oxide in mitigating the pressing environmental concerns linked to organic dye discharge. The application of Al2O3-based catalysts in the photocatalytic treatment of multi-component organic dyes necessitates further exploration, particularly in addressing real-world wastewater complexities.

The purpose of this study is to assess the mechanical and microscopic properties of concrete containing different dosages of polyolefin fibers and slag through tests of compressive strength, resistivity, water absorption, mercury intrusion porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy. Test results indicate that the specimens containing slag have higher compressive strength, lower absorption, lower resistivity and denser porestructures than the control and specimen made with fibers. The specimens containing slag and polyolefin fiber demonstrated better performances in fiber reinforced concrete. Scanning electron microscopy illustrates that the polyolefin fiber acts to arrest the propagation of internal cracks. Still, there are cracks and weaknesses between fiber and paste that cause harmful ions penetrated easier.

This paper presents the results of testing the adhesion of geopolymer coatings and varnishes with ceramic additives to concrete and steel substrates. The measurement method used and described in this article was the pull-off method. The pull-off method test provides an easy way to evaluate the degree of adhesion of coatings to metal surfaces. The pull-off device provides values for the peel stress, which not only allows a quick determination of the adhesion of the coating to the substrate, but also makes it easier to compare the adhesion of several coatings to each other. However, this method requires appropriate preparation, so an attempt was made to determine its suitability for geopolymer layers. The results of testing the adhesion of a geopolymer layer to a geopolymer substrate and a concrete substrate are presented. As a result of this study, a higher adhesion strength of the geopolymer layer to the geopolymer substrate was found in comparison to geopolymer coatings applied on conventional concrete. Adhesion tests were also conducted for steel substrates to which both geopolymer and acrylic lacquer were applied.

The main motivations for the development of research in the area of appropriate additives for asphalt and bitumen are the enhancement of their properties and improvement of their production process, including the reduction in environmental burden. Many additives improve the properties of mineral–asphalt mixtures. Traditionally, additives such as the following are applied: elastomers, plastomers, latexes, rubber powder, resins, and others. Currently, the modification of asphalt and bitumen materials by traditional additives can be replaced by nanomaterials that better fit the requirements of modern industry. New solutions are required, which has led to years of studies researching micro- and nano-additives. The main aim of the article is to analyze contemporary research where micro- and nano-additives were applied to asphalt and bitumen and summarize the advantages and disadvantages of the implementation of these additives for road construction. The article studied the state of the art in this area based on the literature research. It presents the possible materials’ solutions, including their properties, used technology, and featured trends for road construction. The challenges for further projects are discussed, especially environmental issues.

Fly ash-based geopolymers can be considered as a greener alternative to ordinary Portland cement, featuring comparable properties and cost yet with lower CO2 emissions. New wood fiber reinforced geopolymer composites with sand addition (WFSGC) have been synthesized at room temperature by mixing powder (fly ash, sand and randomly reinforced wood fiber) with sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide as alkaline activators. New WFSGC were cured at 90°C for 24 h. The design and investigation of WFSGC were based on a fix 5 wt.% percentage of sand, with variable wood fiber (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 wt.%) and fly ash percentages. These WFSGC showed decreasing mechanical properties with increasing wood fiber addition as measured by the compressive strength at the cylindrical test (21.76–42.52 MPa), the compressive strength at the cubic test (31.79–39.17 MPa), the force load at upper yield at the cylindrical test (1.27–3.58KN), the flexural strength (7–10.76 MPa), compressive modulus at the cylindrical test (590,75–1021.17 MPa), the compressive modulus at cubic test (787.92–1059.79 MPa) and the flexural modulus (298.03–737.83 MPa). The density of WFRGC decreases with the addition of wood fiber (1.49–1.71 g/cm3). WFSGC with addition wood fibers up to 15 wt.% could be the limit for a promising green material for construction.

Rapidly increasing industrialisation has human needs, but the consequences have added to the environmental harm. The pollution caused by several industries, including the dye industries, generates a large volume of wastewater containing dyes and hazardous chemicals that drains industrial effluents. The growing demand for readily available water, as well as the problem of polluted organic waste in reservoirs and streams, is a critical challenge for proper and sustainable development. Remediation has resulted in the need for an appropriate alternative to clear up the implications. Nanotechnology is an efficient and effective path to improve wastewater treatment/remediation. The effective surface properties and chemical activity of nanoparticles give them a better chance to remove or degrade the dye material from wastewater treatment. AgNPs (silver nanoparticles) are an efficient nanoparticle for the treatment of dye effluent that have been explored in many studies. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs against several pathogens is well-recognised in the health and agriculture sectors. This review article summarises the applications of nanosilver-based particles in the dye removal/degradation process, effective water management strategies, and the field of agriculture.

The article summarizes the state of the art in carbon-reinforced geopolymers. It takes into consideration various types of matrices and types of carbon fibers (CFs). The article shows the growing importance of this composite in the investigation conducted in recent years. Today, it is one of the most promising modern research areas, taking into account the decrease in the prices of CFs and their appearance on the market waste-based CFs, as well as research on new methods of producing CFs from sustainable precursors. The research methods applied in the article are critical analyses of the literature. The results of the literature analysis are discussed in a comparative context, including production methods and the influence of CFs on geopolymer properties. The potential applications for carbon fiber-reinforced geopolymer composites are shown. Additionally, the current research challenges for geopolymer composites reinforced by CFs are presented.

Geopolymers are inorganic materials resulting from the synthesis of silicon and aluminum in a polycondensation reaction. In this study, coal mine waste material from the Wieczorek mine in the Śląskie Voivodeship was used to produce geopolymers. The material was prepared, crushed and milled beforehand due to its large dimensions. The material was subjected to sieve analysis, which allowed to distinguish three fractions. The next step was thermal activation of the obtained powder grain sizes. After thermal activation, the material was combined with an alkaline solution to prepare geopolymers. Photographs of the microstructure were taken in order to determine the chemical composition of the geopolymer and to study the phase composition. The best compressive and bending strengths were exhibited by geopolymer samples with particle sizes ranging below 200 µm—19 MPa and 5.7 MPa, respectively.

The waste gypsum used in this study was a by-product of petroleum coke burning by petrochemical companies which has been treated with hydration. The waste gypsum has been stored in the atmosphere for over ten years and can be considered an inert filler. Its main chemical components were calcium sulfate dihydrate (47.90%), calcium hydroxide (21.64%) and calcium carbonate (14.80%). In this study, Portland cement and fly ash were used as cementitious materials, and waste gypsum of the particle size from 9.53 mm to 0.149 mm was selected as the fine aggregate to produce a controlled low-strength material (CLSM) and to verify the suitability of reusing waste gypsum. The water to binder ratio of 0.65 was used for the specimen. The test results showed that the CLSM specimen with a high amount of waste gypsum had air-hardening properties. The placement of the specimen in water caused abnormalities, such as cracking and disintegration of the specimens. The compressive strength of atmospherically maintained specimens increased with age, with 4.71 MPa and 6.08 MPa at 28 and 56 days, respectively. No significant changes in weight or volume were measured after the specimens had been left for 56 days and then immersed in seawater and water for 28 days. As specimens were immersed in seawater for up to 100 days, needle-shaped ettringite and C-S-H colloids filled the interface between the pores and the colloids. In accordance with the concept of eco-engineering, special consideration should be given to avoid long-term contact with water and to ensure the safety and durability of waste gypsum reuse through the design of multiple protective layers.

Implementing the idea of a circular economy is one way to reduce carbon emissions and, at the same time, the consumption of natural resources. The use of mining waste as a raw material helps meet the growing demand for construction materials with a smaller carbon footprint. The article shows the possibility of using a coal shale from Marcel mining to create new eco-friendly materials, geopolymers. The main aim of the presented research includes characteristics of raw material and synthesis of geopolymers based on mining waste (coal shale from Marcel mining) and next, investigations of the obtained materials. Geopolymer was prepared using a sodium activator plus milled and calcinated precursor materials. In this study, the following research methods were used: particle size analysis, XRD analysis, mechanical properties tests (compressive and bonding strength), and microstructure analysis—scanning electron microscopy. The results show potential for the extraction of waste from the Marcel company to obtain material for advanced applications in the geopolymerization process. The material had a compressive strength of 12.7 MPa and a bending strength of 3.4 MPa, which makes it possible for use in construction applications such as various types of foundations, walls, columns, lintels, terraces, stairs, ceilings, small building elements, and small architecture. The proposed process could be a promising alternative to current methods of managing waste rock, in particular hard coal mining.

Geopolymer composites provide an environmentally friendly alternative to cement-based composites in the construction industry. Due to their distinctive material composition, geopolymers also exhibit electrically conductive properties, which permit their application as a functional material. The current work aims to study the distinctive electrical properties of fly-ash-based geopolymer composites. Varying dosages of graphene oxide (i.e., 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4% (by wt. of binder)) were introduced into the geopolymer matrix to enhance electrical conductivity. While GO (graphene oxide) is typically less conductive, the interaction of GO sheets with the alkaline solution during geopolymerisation reduced the functional groups and produced cross-linked rGO (reduced graphene oxide) sheets with increased mechanical and electrical conductivity properties. Solid-state impedance spectroscopy was used to characterize the electrical properties of geopolymer composites in terms of several parameters, such as impedance, electrical conductivity and dielectric properties, within the frequency ranging from 101 to 105 Hz. The relationship between the electrical properties and graphene oxide reinforcement can effectively establish geopolymer composite development as smart materials with desirable functionality. The results suggest an effective enhancement in electrical conductivity of up to 7.72 × 10−13 Ω⋅mm−1 and the dielectric response performance of graphene-reinforced fly-ash-based geopolymer composites.

Space missions will require the capability to build structures on site using local resources. Before 2040, NASA and the European Space Agency want to ensure the possibility of a permanent human residence in shelters on the Moon or Mars. The article analyzed the state of the art in this area based on the literature research. It shows innovative and energy efficient solutions for manufacturing the lunar and Martian shelters based on geopolymer composites. Firstly, the possible materials solutions, with particular attention to the geopolymer composites, are discussed. Next, the previous research is presented, including work based on different kinds of simulants of lunar and Martian regolith. Then, a different approach for manufacturing technologies is presented and the advantages of 3D printing technology are clarified. Eventually, the challenges for further projects are discussed, including energy and cost efficiency problems.

The semi-solid state casting procedure was used to manufacture as-cast AA5083, 1 and 2 wt.% of aluminosilicate reinforced composite material. After solidification, developed as-cast materials were subjected to shock wave treatment in the subsonic wind tunnel. Various techniques were used to evaluate the change in shock wave exposure, including mechanical and structural analysis, which is a field dedicated to the study of vibrations and other material properties. The research methods involved developed material grain structure and surface morphology, such as field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, and the energy dispersive method. This study shows that the microhardness value of the matrix material is increased before and after exposure to shock wave treatment compared to the developed composite material. The natural frequency of the developed composite increases as a result of the addition of aluminosilicate reinforcement before and after the shock wave. In addition, the shifting of frequency mechanism is studied to know the influence of shock wave surface treatment. The results obtained show the potential of the application of this material in the area of robotic parts.

The main aim of this article, carried out in relation to ash–cement mortars, is to determine the effect of complex additives of polyfunctional modifiers, including, in addition to superplasticizers, air-entraining and water-retaining additives, at different values of water–cement ratios. With the use of experimental–statistical models, the complex effect on the adhesive strength of cement–ash mortars of water–cement and ash–cement ratios, as well as complex additives of polyfunctional modifiers, including air-entraining and water-retaining additives, is considered. The extreme nature of the water–cement and ash–cement ratios on the adhesive strength of ash–cement mortars are established. Their optimal values are in the ranges of 0.7–0.75 and 0.35–0.4, respectively. The addition of a naphthalene-formaldehyde superplasticizer makes it possible to increase the adhesive strength of mortars by up to 40%. A positive effect is achieved along with the addition of a superplasticizer by introducing optimal amounts of air-entraining and water-retaining additives into the mortar mixtures. Quantitative parameters of mortar compositions that positively affect adhesive strength are established. The influence on the adhesive strength of the fly ash was also investigated, as well as on the binder–sand ratio. In addition, a positive effect on the adhesive strength of modified cement–ash mortars was experimentally shown by increasing the specific surface area of fly ash by regrinding it and increasing the cement–sand ratio.

Irreversible climate change, including atmosphere temperature extremes, is one of the most important issues of the present time. In this context, the construction industry requires solutions for increasing the energy efficiency of buildings through feedback between temperature adjustment inside buildings and better isolation of the external parts of buildings. Newly developed thermal insulation materials play an important role in this strategy. This paper presents the foamed geopolymer based on metakaolin that can be used as a modern facade material. In order to further improve its thermal insulation properties, the composition of geopolymer was modified with organic substances, i.e., perlite and cellulose fibers (30% and 50% of the volume). The thermal conductivity and insulation properties, density, mineral phases, absorbability, and compressive strength were improved for composite materials. It has been shown that the final properties of the foamed geopolymer can be controlled to a great extent by modifications, and the final properties determine its applicability.

Two geopolymer foams were prepared from a thermally activated coal gangue containing kaolinite. As the foaming agent, aluminium powder and 36% hydrogen peroxide were used to obtain two levels of porosity. The materials’ high temperature performances were investigated: tensile and compressive strength evolution with temperature. This study shows that the mechanical performances of developed geopolymer foams are similar to foam concrete of the same apparent density. The geopolymer foams from coal gangue present stable mechanical performances up to 600 °C. When the glass transition temperature is achieved, sintering occurs and mechanical performance increases. SEM observations confirm the glass transition and densification of the matrix at temperatures above 800 °C. Moreover, the XRD measurements revealed a high amount of mullite that forms at 1000 °C that explained the observed strength increase. The synthesis of good-quality geopolymer foams from coal gangue and its application as a thermal barrier is feasible. The constant level of porosity and its stable character in the range of temperatures 20–1000 °C ensures stable thermal insulation parameters with increasing temperature, which is extremely important for fire protection.

This paper presents modern copper-matrix composite materials in which volcanic tuff particles are used as a reinforcing phase. The aim of the research was to determine the optimal shares of volcanic tuff additive based on such criteria as softening temperature, relative density, electrical conductivity, and hardness. The properties of the produced and tested composites allowed us to determine the usefulness of this type of material for resistance welding electrodes. To confirm the assumptions made, preliminary investigations of the durability and behavior of electrodes made of the tested material during the processes of welding non-alloy steel sheets were carried out. As a result of the research, it was discovered that the addition of 5% tuff produces the best results in this type of composite. It was found that for the sample with a 5% share of tuff, a high softening point above 600 °C was obtained, high hardness after densification at the level of 62 HRB, and high relative density of approximately 95% and very good conductivity at the level of approximately 45 MS/m. The conducted tests did not show any electrode wear different from the commonly used alloys for resistance welding.

This work aims to identify the pattern for the major output parameters, material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (Ra) of different combinations of Al6061-based composites. Based on the verification carried out on these patterns using analysis of variance (ANOVA) as the mathematical tool, the work predicts the mentioned output characteristics while machining Al6061 composites of different material compositions based on their hardness values. ANOVA was employed for the generation of equations of the particular composite. The equations were compared for the coefficients of each parameter employed in ANOVA. The work was carried out comparing the characteristic equation of different combinations of Al6061-based composite. The results indicate that the coefficients of the current show a drastic variation when compared to other coefficients for both the output parameters. It was observed that the current and its coefficients contribute to the output parameters based on the variation in hardness. For surface roughness, the constant of the characteristic equation was also found to influence the parameter for the change in hardness. The equation derived for both material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (Ra) were identified to be matching with the experimental result carried out for validation. The average variation observed was 9.3% for MRR and 7.2% for surface roughness.

This work aimed to determine the effect of the addition of different types of reinforcing fibers on the strength properties of geopolymers such as flexural and compressive strength. Geopolymers are an attractive alternative to conventional binders and building materials; however, one of the main problems of their widespread use is their low resistance to brittle fracture. To improve the mechanical properties, reinforcement in the form of glass, carbon, and basalt fibers (as grids) was applied to geopolymers in the following work. Additionally, composites with these fibers were produced not only in the matrix of pure geopolymer but also as a hybrid variant with the addition of cement. Furthermore, basalt grids were used as reinforcement for geopolymers not only based on ash but also metakaolin. An additional variable used in the study was the molar concentration of the alkali solution (5 M and 10 M) for the different types of geopolymer samples. The mechanical properties of geopolymer materials and geopolymer–cement hybrids are the highest when reinforcement in the form of carbon fiber is used. Strength values for geopolymers reinforced with basalt mats depend on the number of reinforcement layers and the concentration of the alkaline solution used. All produced composites were tested for compressive strength and bending strength. When using basalt mesh, it was possible to achieve a bending strength of 12 MPa. The highest compressive strength that was achieved was the value of 66 MPa, while for samples not reinforced with fibers, only about 40 MPa was achieved.

Creep and shrinkage of Cement and Concrete Composites (CCC) are significant properties that need to be considered to use these materials in practice. Many previous scientific studies revealed CCC creep characteristics under sustained compression and shrinkage, using traditional test methods from design standards. Because of the complexity of experimental procedures, CCC creep in tension has not been studied as close. Furthermore, there is no unified standard that proposes applicable testing methods or specific testing apparatus. This study examines the suitability of 2D—Digital Image Correlation (DIC) to observe the creep deformations of specimens under tension. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) mortar with 1% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibres has been investigated in the research. Compact tension (CT) specimens 150 × 150 × 12 mm (with a notch) were used. Creep deformations under sustained uniaxial tension (applied loading corresponding to 60% of the ultimate strength) were measured. DIC images were captured using an entry/mid-level DSLR camera. Results show that DIC is suitable for studying uniaxial tensile creep of cement and concrete composites. Deformation of specimens in tension was similar to that measured using the conventional method (using surface-attached gauges).

Article develops one of the key problems of modern consulting and it attempts to analyze customer (organization) needs in the area of consulting services and the importance of consulting for contemporary organizations. The article aims to analyze the importance of consulting services for organizations and attempts to identify main areas of organization that require external support of professional consultants. The article presents benefits and potential threats for organizations related to the external consulting services. The article ends with a presentation of research on various aspects of organizational consulting. Research methods applied in the article are: critical analysis of literature sources, research surveys conducted among respondents who are participants in postgraduate studies in management.