Hubert.Rahier@vub.be
Hubert Rahier obtained his PhD in 1995 on the synthesis and characterization of inorganic polymers (now known as geopolymers). After the PhD, the research topic is broadened to phosphate cements. In 2001 be became assistant professor at Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
As of 2017 he is head of the research unit ‘Physical Chemistry and Polymer Science’ (FYSC), part of the Department ‘Materials and Chemistry’ (MACH) of the Faculty of Engineering. The research activities of FYSC are focused on ‘(molecular and supra-molecular) structure – processing – property’ relations in polymers for developing materials with improved performance.
H. Rahier is leading the development of new inorganic materials, striving to develop construction materials with a minimal environmental impact. This is done via the use of residuals or waste as raw materials. In 2011 the research on the production of a cementitious material purely based on residuals started with the use of biomass ashes as activator for residuals such as blast furnace slag. In 2017 the research on the complete recycling of concrete started. The main issue being the recycling of the hydrated (Portland) cement. Several researchers from all over the world visited his lab or collaborate on research on inorganic polymers.