Center for the Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI)

The primary objective of the Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) is to usher applications and cost effective rehabilitation schemes using composites in civil and military structures to the next level through integral efforts between the university sites in collaboration with the composites and construction industries. The focus areas synergize different fibers and polymers, including natural and bioconstituent materials to create new application areas and rehab techniques; thus expanding market potential.

Center Mission and Rationale

Efficient infrastructure systems such as highways, bridges, buildings, pipelines, flood control systems and utilities are all necessary for a healthy economy and comfortable standard of living. Concrete, steel and timber are the backbones of physical infrastructure. High strength polymer composites have been used for aerospace structures for about five decades and their use in civil infrastructure spans about 20 years. The widespread use of polymer composites in infrastructure will allow for longer service lives and reduced maintenance costs.

The mission of CICI is to accelerate the adoption of polymer composites and innovated construction material into infrastructure and transportation applications through collaborative research.

Research program

Special Activities

Facilities and Laboratory

The facilities available to CICI members are vast, ranging from nano-scale research to full scale testing. With the combined resources of the center universities, there is no composite research challenge that cannot be conquered.