Following years of collaboration between the University of Malta’s Faculty for the Built Environment and J. M. Vassallo Vibro Blocks, a new collaborative agreement has been set up, focusing on research in materials engineering, construction products and their performance and sustainable construction.

The research in materials engineering addresses traditional building materials and systems and innovative products and technologies developed for both the local and international markets, from concrete additives to new construction systems.

While the agreement addresses a wide range of construction materials and systems, research activity targets in particular new systems intended for an improved overall building performance, including durability and energy efficiency.

The research will also address the load bearing modular sandwich panel systems (EVG-3D Construction System) based on EPS, steel mesh and concrete developed by J. M. Vassallo Vibro Blocks. The system is intended to address strength characteristics and durability and an improved energy and environmental performance. The research also addresses lifecycle engineering and service life considerations through lifecycle analysis and lifecycle cost assessment.

More information about the collaborative research project can be obtained from project coordinator Ruben Paul Borg (e-mail: ruben.p.borg@um.edu.mt), Faculty for the Built Environment, University of Malta.