Advanced Characterization and Evaluation of Construction Materials

Dear Colleagues,

For the “Advanced Characterization and Evaluation of Construction Materials” Special Issue in Buildings, we invite original and cutting‑edge research that advances our ability to probe, model, and optimize the performances of both traditional and emerging building materials. We welcome studies that bridge scales—from atomic and nano‑scale investigations through mesoscale structure–property relationships to full‑component behavior—using techniques such as high‑resolution imaging, spectroscopy, nano‑/micro‑mechanical testing, rheometry, and in situ monitoring under realistic service conditions. Contributions integrating data‑driven methods, machine learning, and digital‑twin approaches for predictive durability, life‑cycle analysis, and sustainable material design are particularly encouraged.

Thus, we invite researchers to submit original and innovative studies that propel materials science and engineering practice toward smarter, more resilient, and eco‑efficient construction solutions. Articles addressing, but not limited to, the following subtopics are considered suitable for publication:

• High‑resolution X‑ray CT and 3D imaging of pore networks, aggregate distributions, and damage evolution;
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) for micro‑ and nano‑scale morphology, composition, and mechanical mapping;
• Spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, Raman, NMR) to elucidate hydration chemistry, polymer cross‑linking, and degradation mechanisms;
• Nanoindentation and micro‑mechanical testing of cementitious phases, fiber–matrix interfaces, and interfacial transition zones;
• Advanced rheometry for fresh‑state behavior of high‑performance, self‑consolidating, and 3D‑printable cementitious mixtures;
• In situ monitoring using digital image correlation (DIC), acoustic emission, ultrasonic methods, and embedded fiber‑optic sensors under environmental and mechanical loads;
• Computational modeling, machine learning frameworks, and digital twin implementations for predictive performance and optimization;
• Life‑cycle assessment and sustainability evaluation of recycled, bio‑based, and eco‑efficient construction materials;
• Multi‑scale structure–property relationship studies coupling experimental data with numerical simulations.

We look forward to receiving your contributions, which will enrich this Special Issue and help to drive the development of advanced, durable, and sustainable construction materials.

Kind regards,

Dr. Tianjie Zhang
Dr. Zhen Liu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Buildings is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• materials characterization
• microstructural analysis
• mechanical testing
• computational modeling
• in-situ monitoring
• durability assessment
• machine learning
• sustainable materials
• lifecycle analysis
• digital twin