Kirk Vessalas

Associate Professor Kirk Vessalas is Head of School at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney. He has led groundbreaking research on low-carbon concrete, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), and alkali-silica reaction (ASR) mitigation since 1992. His work integrates industrial by-products like fly ash and slag into high-performance concrete systems, supporting Australia's transition to a net-zero economy.

• PhD in Civil Engineering (UTS, 2009)
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Materials Science (UTS, 1991)

Research interests span:

• Concrete durability and decarbonisation
• Mechanisms of ASR and DEF (Delayed Ettringite Formation)
• Development of smart cement-based sensors with self-sensing and self-cleaning properties
• Application of nanotomography for microstructural analysis
• Regulatory reform in Australian and New Zealand concrete standards

Recent publications highlight advancements in alkali-activated binders, DEF risk assessment, and SCM integration for sustainable infrastructure. His studies often combine chemical analysis, durability testing, and industry collaboration to address practical challenges.

Supervision and grants include mentoring students like Johnson Mak and Nicholas Allan, with over $6M AUD secured from ARC Research Hub, SmartCrete CRC, and international partnerships. He actively collaborates with Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia, Concrete New Zealand, and infrastructure agencies.