Title:
Ultra-High Performance, Ultra-High Coexistence, from Strength to Symbiosis: Visions for a Resilient Nature-Positive UHPC Infrastructure
Author(s):
Kay Wille
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_F25_KayWille.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
2/2/2026
Abstract:
Concrete has long interacted with nature—from Roman seawater concretes that mineralized in situ to oyster-encrusted breakwaters and vegetated revetments. These precedents suggest moving beyond “resistance only” toward resilient structures that cooperate with living systems. This talk outlines a paradigm of structural–ecological symbiosis using ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) as the platform. UHPC’s strength, toughness, and durability enable slender sections and protective shells that preserve safety while creating room for biofunction. Near-term work targets: (1) bio-receptive UHPC and surface morphologies with tuned roughness, porosity, and nutrient microchannels to support benign biofilms, lichens, shells, or engineered mosses; (2) fiber/lattice exoskeletons that mechanically support climbing vegetation or root mats without sacrificing cover or durability; and (3) quantifying growth-induced actions—root pressure and biogenic mineralization—on cracking, stiffness, transport, freeze–thaw, abrasion, and fire. The aim is practical: nature-positive UHPC elements that protect people and infrastructure while inviting habitat.