A/ProfKirk Vessalas

Kirk Vessalas has been at the forefront of cement and concrete innovation since 1992, with a sustained research focus on advancing the decarbonisation of construction materials. He has published over 150 scholarly works, including 25 Q1 journal articles, in areas spanning concrete durability, alkali-silica reaction mitigation, and the development of new-generation supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). His research centres on the design, laboratory validation, and field performance of low-carbon concrete systems, pioneering solutions that reduce embodied carbon while maintaining structural integrity and long-term durability.

A nationally recognised authority on sustainable infrastructure, Kirk leads research programs that directly support Australia’s transition to a circular, net-zero economy. His work integrates industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, mine tailings, and mineral carbonation derivatives into cement and concrete formulations, delivering high-performance, low-carbon alternatives to traditional materials. Through strategic projects, including those funded by SmartCrete CRC, ARC, and international decarbonisation partnerships, he has secured over $6m AUD in competitive research funding.

Kirk’s contributions have translated into tangible regulatory and industry outcomes. He has played a central role in reforming technical standards and codes of practice in Australia and New Zealand, including input into Transport for NSW QA Specifications and Concrete NZ’s ASR guidance. As an active member of Standards Australia (BD-042: Testing Concrete, BD-007: Glazing and Fixing of Glass), he provides expert advice on SCM classification, testing protocols, and performance thresholds for carbon-conscious construction. His leadership in the field is further reinforced by enduring collaborations with Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia, Concrete New Zealand, and major infrastructure agencies.