In the heart of Indiana, researchers are laying the groundwork for a future where roads do more than just provide a smooth ride. Mohamed Abdel Raouf, an assistant professor at Ball State University’s Department of Construction Management and Interior Design, is pioneering a novel approach to rigid pavements that could revolutionize the energy sector. His work, published in the Journal of Building Materials and Structures (known in English as the Journal of Building Materials and Structures), explores the potential of magnetizable concrete, a material that could transform our roads into dynamic infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs).
Abdel Raouf’s research focuses on developing high-performance magnetizable mortars that can be used in pavement applications. By incorporating natural magnetite, slag, and scrap iron fillings, he has found a way to enhance the magnetic properties of Portland cement mortars. “The idea is to create a pavement that can interact with EVs, potentially enabling wireless charging as vehicles drive,” Abdel Raouf explains. This innovation could significantly impact the energy sector by making EV charging more convenient and efficient, thereby accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. As the demand for EVs grows, so does the need for sustainable and innovative infrastructure. Magnetizable concrete pavements could become a cornerstone of smart cities, integrating energy supply directly into the road network. “This technology has the potential to reduce the reliance on traditional charging stations, which can be costly and inconvenient,” Abdel Raouf notes. By embedding magnetic properties into the pavement, the energy sector could see a shift towards more distributed and accessible charging solutions.
The experimental testing program conducted by Abdel Raouf and his team involved assessing various properties of the magnetizable mortars. They evaluated magnetic properties through inductance tests, fresh properties using the mini-slump test, hardened properties through compressive strength tests at 3, 7, and 28 days, and durability through chemical soundness and abrasion resistance. The results were promising, showing that the magnetizable mortars have a higher abrasion resistance, making them suitable for rigid pavement applications.
The integration of enhancers such as magnets, steel mesh, and steel bars further improved the magnetic properties of the concrete. This innovation could pave the way for eRoads and smart pavements, where roads not only facilitate transportation but also contribute to the energy ecosystem. “The potential applications are vast,” Abdel Raouf says. “From reducing the carbon footprint of transportation to enhancing the efficiency of energy distribution, magnetizable concrete pavements could be a game-changer.”
As the world moves towards a greener economy, the need for innovative construction materials becomes increasingly urgent. Abdel Raouf’s research offers a glimpse into a future where infrastructure is not just static but dynamic, playing an active role in supporting sustainable energy solutions. The publication of this work in the Journal of Building Materials and Structures underscores its significance and potential impact on the construction and energy sectors.
In the coming years, we may see magnetizable concrete pavements becoming a reality, transforming our roads into intelligent networks that support the energy needs of the future. Abdel Raouf’s work is a testament to the power of innovation in addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. As he continues to explore the possibilities of magnetizable concrete, the construction industry and the energy sector stand on the brink of a new era of sustainable and smart infrastructure.