Contact
Biography
Dr Athina Grizi holds an MEng in Civil Engineering and MSc in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Patras, Greece. She received her PhD in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Michigan, USA.
Her primary research interests are in the realm of soil dynamics, pile dynamics, soil-structure interaction and numerical modelling.
Dr Grizi is a member of the Nottingham Centre for Geomechanics research group.
Teaching Summary
CIVE3012 Geotechnics 3
CIVE2043 Portfolio of Civil Engineering Studies - Geology Workshop
CIVE4021 Group Design Project
Recent Publications
ATALAN, M., PRENDERGAST, L. J., GRIZI, A. and THOM, N., 2022. A Review of Numerical Models for Slab-Asphalt Track Railways: Infrastructures Infrastructures. 7(4), ATHINA GRIZI, ADDA ATHANASOPOULOS-ZEKKOS and RICHARD D. WOODS, 2018. Closure to “Ground Vibration Measurements near Impact Pile Driving” by Athina Grizi, Adda Athanasopoulos-Zekkos, and Richard D. Woods Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering. 144(4),
PhD Studentship: Utilization of Sustainable Grouting Alternatives to Fly Ash in Grouting Applications
Project description
Chemical grouts used to stabilize old mine workings are made up of a combination of Pulverised Fuel Ash (PFA) and cement. PFA is a by-product from coal-fired power stations. In 2015 the UK government was the first in the world to announce its commitment to phase out the use of unabated coal power generation by the end of 2025. This closure of coal-fired stations will cease the production of PFA, leaving no other option but the investigation of substitute materials that can be used to supplement grout mixes.
This project aims to:
- Identify eco-efficient materials that may be used as supplementary addition to grout mixes
- Test the performance of alternative materials and compare the results to standard PFA:Cement mixes
PhD Studentship: Decarbonising construction materials
Project description
The construction sector has a major impact on the environment, including a significant amount of waste being generated, along with high water consumption and particulate matter in cities. When it comes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions the construction value chain is accounting for up to 25% of global GHG emissions, mainly driven by two components: raw material processing and buildings operation. Climate change and depletion of non-renewable resources have driven decarbonisation strategy plans to promote the transition towards a circular economy. Investment in net-zero construction materials is necessary to meet the COP26 climate goals. Biomass-based construction materials have been identified as low-carbon materials that reduce energy consumption and over-exploitation of natural geomaterials. Biomass and recyclable materials have the potential to be used to produce materials for civil and geotechnical applications. Research has focused on the feasibility of eco-efficient materials in engineering practice mainly to produce building materials. However, there is limited evidence of successful practical applications in the field of construction materials for other applications.
This project aims to:
- Evaluate the properties of biomass-based and recyclable materials
- Study of the mechanical characteristics and energy efficiency of the newly developed construction materials
- Assess the efficiency of the developed materials in targeted civil and geotechnical engineering applications
Characterization of Pile Driving Induced Ground Motions
Project description
Pile installation is a complicated, energy intensive process where codes and regulatory standards provide some guidance, but little is understood about coupling and transmission of pile driving energy into and through the ground in the form of vibrations. These vibrations can cause direct structural damage and damage due to settlement of granular soils.
This project aims to:
- Validate a Finite Element code based on ground vibration monitoring data from full-scale and reduced-scale pile driving tests
- Characterize the pile driving vibration environment
- Develop a formula predicting the energy dissipation into the ground
Eligibility
Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a 1st class or 2.1 honours degree (or international equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Physics or a related subject. A relevant Master degree in these areas would be advantageous.
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English Language requirements.
Students with experience or a willingness to learn software such as MATLAB, Plaxis and Abaqus are encouraged to apply.
Due to funding restrictions this position is only available for Home candidates.
We offer a number of different scholarships so please check if you are eligible for one of them:
Funding for postgraduates
International scholarships
Future Research
I welcome enquiries from potential PhD candidates from Home, EU and international countries who are interested in the following research areas: Construction vibrations, Pile dynamics, Geohazard monitoring, Health assessment of aging infrastructure, Modern subsurface characterization, Soil dynamics.
We offer a number of different scholarships so please check if you are eligible for one of them:
Funding for postgraduates
International scholarships