The project aims to develop structural lightweight concretes (LWC) with self-sensing capabilities by incorporating two industrial by-products: zinc oxide nanoparticles (nnps-ZnO) and a silica-rich mineral residue. These materials are intended to enhance the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of LWC while reducing its environmental impact.

The goal is to create a multifunctional concrete capable of real-time structural health monitoring without external sensors, contributing to more resilient and sustainable infrastructure. The project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

The research explores the piezoresistive behavior of LWC with nnps-ZnO, the pozzolanic potential of the silica by-product, and the scalability of these materials for real-world applications. The project also addresses the challenges of industrial implementation and aims to develop predictive maintenance strategies through embedded sensing.